FOXBORO, MA — The New England Patriots’ kicking competition is heating up, and the latest twist has fans buzzing with excitement. Veteran kicker John Parker Romo, a former XFL star, has been signed to the Patriots’ practice squad for the 2024 season, setting the stage for an intense battle with rookie Andres Borregales. Despite being the underdog, Romo is approaching the challenge with the confidence of a seasoned pro, and his recent performance has turned heads.
Romo, who had a brief stint with the Minnesota Vikings earlier in 2024, is no stranger to the grind of professional football. Undrafted out of Virginia Tech in 2022, the Georgia native has bounced around the NFL, with stops at the New Orleans Saints, Detroit Lions, and Chicago Bears. His standout performance came in 2023 with the XFL’s San Antonio Brahmas, where he earned All-XFL First Team honors. Romo racked up 51 points, including a then-record 57-yard field goal that showcased his leg strength and precision.
Now, Romo is back with the Patriots, where he spent time on the team in December of the previous year. “I was here on the team last year in December, so good experience there, and I’m excited to be back in the stadium just kicking,” Romo told reporters on Thursday. Despite the Patriots spending a draft pick on Borregales, a talented rookie from Miami, Romo remains unfazed. “There’s no different approach,” he said, emphasizing his focus on consistency and execution.
The Patriots’ coaching staff, led by head coach Mike Vrabel and special teams coordinator Jeremy Springer, has taken an unconventional approach to the kicking competition during training camp. Instead of having Romo and Borregales kick on the same day, they alternate practice days to manage their workload, similar to a pitch count for baseball pitchers. “It’s a way for us to build in days off for kickers, kind of like baseball pitchers and pitch count — kickers and kick count,” Romo explained.
Both kickers have been flawless so far. On one day, Romo went 6-for-6 on field goals, with attempts ranging from 32 to 50 yards. The following practice, Borregales matched the performance, also going 6-for-6. This neck-and-neck competition has added intrigue to an already compelling storyline.
Romo’s experience gives him an edge in navigating the ups and downs of a position battle. “This is year four for me in the league, I’ve been through OTAs, I’ve been through spring ball and training camp,” he said. “I understand how I show up to OTAs, and then make the corrections, showing up to training camp and what I need to do.”
The first real test for both kickers looms large, as the Patriots face the Washington Commanders in their preseason opener this Friday, following a joint practice with the team. For Romo, it’s a golden opportunity to prove he belongs on the active roster. “It feels great anytime you go get opportunities to go make a name for yourself,” Romo said. “You just gotta go out and execute.”
With Borregales likely holding the advantage due to his draft status, Romo’s journey from XFL stardom to NFL contender is nothing short of inspiring. His clutch performances and relentless work ethic have already stunned fans, and this kicking battle is shaping up to be one of the most exciting position competitions in the NFL. Will Romo’s veteran savvy and booming leg outshine the rookie phenom, or will Borregales solidify his spot as the Patriots’ kicker of the future? One thing is certain—this showdown is about to get wild!