Miami Gardens, FL — September 23, 2026 — The Miami Dolphins are officially on high alert. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the team brought in three free-agent kickers for tryouts on Tuesday, a direct response to incumbent Riley Patterson's shaky start to the 2026 campaign. Patterson has missed a field goal in each of the Dolphins' first two games — a Week 1 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders and a Week 2 defeat against the San Francisco 49ers — leaving points on the board and raising serious questions about his job security.
Hafley's Patience Wears Thin
Following the Week 2 loss, head coach Jeff Hafley didn't mince words when addressing the media. “Yeah, we gotta hit field goals,” Hafley said, his frustration palpable. “That's two misses in two games. We are counting on him to make those kicks.” Hafley's public admonishment was a warning shot. On Tuesday, he backed up his words with action, as the Dolphins hosted Chris Freeman, Tanner Brown, and Lucas Havrisik for workouts — a clear signal that Patterson's leash is short.
Who Are the Candidates?
The trio of tryout kickers brings varying levels of experience and intrigue. Chris Freeman, a UConn product, signed with the Houston Texans this offseason but was cut just two days later — a brief cup of coffee that didn't showcase his potential. Tanner Brown, undrafted in 2023, has bounced around the NFL with the Los Angeles Rams, Atlanta Falcons, and New Orleans Saints, and most recently starred for the Louisville Kings of the United Football League. Brown has never attempted an NFL kick, but he converted 25 of 28 field goals with a long of 60 yards in the UFL earlier this year, proving he has the leg and accuracy to warrant a look.
Lucas Havrisik, meanwhile, is the most seasoned of the group. He has spent time with the Indianapolis Colts, Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Rams, Buffalo Bills, and Green Bay Packers, amassing a 19-of-24 career mark on field goals with a long of 61 yards. Havrisik also suited up for the Arlington Renegades of the UFL. His NFL experience and proven range make him a compelling option if Miami decides to move on from Patterson.
What's Next for Miami?
As of Wednesday morning, the Dolphins have not signed any of the tryout kickers, but the writing is on the wall. Patterson's misses have directly contributed to two losses, and in a loaded AFC East, every game matters. If Patterson struggles again in Week 3, his replacement could be inked in short order. The Dolphins are clearly exploring all options to stabilize a critical position.
Stay tuned to Vulius for all the latest on this developing story. As the season rolls on, the Dolphins' kicking situation will be one to watch — and potentially one to fix before it derails their playoff aspirations.
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