Cam Little Named Starting Kicker for Jacksonville Jaguars

In the NFL, special teams consistency can be the difference between a playoff berth and a missed opportunity—and for the Jacksonville Jaguars, that consistency has found a new face with a key preseason announcement: Cam Little Named Starting Kicker for Jacksonville Jaguars. After a months-long competition with veteran kicker Brandon McManus and undrafted free agent Jake Bates, the rookie Little emerged as the team’s choice to handle field goals and extra points heading into the regular season. A fifth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of the University of Arkansas, Little brings a track record of accuracy and composure under pressure that the Jaguars hope will stabilize a kicking unit that struggled with inconsistency last season. For head coach Doug Pederson, the decision wasn’t just about raw talent—it was about finding a kicker who could thrive in high-stakes moments, whether it’s a game-winning field goal in the final seconds or a critical extra point to tie the score. As the Jaguars prepare to chase an AFC South title, Little’s promotion signals a commitment to building a reliable special teams unit that can complement their explosive offense and improving defense.

Cam Little Named Starting Kicker for Jacksonville Jaguars comes on the heels of a standout preseason performance that showcased his ability to deliver when it matters most. Over three preseason games, Little converted all 5 of his field goal attempts—including a 54-yarder against the Miami Dolphins that sailed through the uprights with room to spare—and made all 4 of his extra point tries. What impressed the Jaguars’ coaching staff most, however, was his consistency in adverse conditions: in the preseason finale against the Atlanta Falcons, Little kicked in heavy rain and wind, yet still converted a 48-yard field goal and two extra points without hesitation. His college career at Arkansas laid the groundwork for this success: over four seasons, Little made 82.3% of his field goal attempts (79 of 96), including a remarkable 91.7% success rate from 40-49 yards and 75% from 50+ yards. He also never missed an extra point in his college career (198 of 198), a streak that speaks to his focus and precision. Jaguars special teams coordinator Heath Farwell praised Little’s work ethic during training camp, noting, “Cam shows up every day ready to work. He studies film, adjusts his technique based on feedback, and never lets a bad rep affect the next one. That’s the kind of mindset you need from a kicker in this league.”

The on-field impact of Cam Little Named Starting Kicker for Jacksonville Jaguars was evident during training camp, where Little built a strong rapport with long snapper Ross Matiscik and holder Logan Cooke—two veterans who play critical roles in the kicking unit’s success. The trio spent extra time after practice working on timing, with Matiscik refining his snaps to ensure they reach Cooke at the perfect height and speed, and Cooke practicing his holds to keep the ball steady for Little. One memorable moment came during a late-August practice, when the Jaguars simulated a game-winning scenario: 4 seconds left, trailing by 2 points, 52-yard field goal attempt. Little stepped up, took the snap, and drilled the kick through the uprights, drawing cheers from teammates and coaches. “The chemistry between us is growing every day,” Cooke said. “Cam is calm under pressure, and he trusts that Ross and I will do our jobs so he can focus on his. That trust is everything for a kicking unit—when everyone is on the same page, good things happen.” Little’s ability to handle long kicks also gives the Jaguars more flexibility on offense: instead of punting on fourth down from the opponent’s 35-40 yard line, Pederson can now confidently send Little out to attempt a field goal, potentially adding three points to the scoreboard and putting pressure on the opposing team.

Cam Little Named Starting Kicker for Jacksonville Jaguars also addresses a key need for the Jacksonville Jaguars: stability at the kicker position. Last season, the Jaguars used two different kickers (McManus and Rodrigo Blankenship), and their combined field goal accuracy (77.8%) ranked 24th in the NFL. This inconsistency cost the Jaguars at least two games: a Week 6 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, where a missed 45-yard field goal in the final minute sealed the defeat, and a Week 11 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, where an extra point miss in the third quarter proved decisive. By naming Little the starter, the Jaguars are hoping to avoid similar scenarios this season. General manager Trent Baalke emphasized the importance of long-term stability when discussing the decision. “We drafted Cam with the expectation that he could be our kicker for years to come,” Baalke said. “He has the talent, the work ethic, and the mental toughness to succeed in this league. Giving him the starting job now allows him to grow with the team and build the confidence he needs to be a reliable contributor for years.” For the Jacksonville Jaguars, Little’s promotion isn’t just a short-term fix—it’s an investment in the future of their special teams unit.

Another key aspect of Cam Little Named Starting Kicker for Jacksonville Jaguars is the mentorship he’s received from McManus, who despite losing the starting job has remained a positive presence in the locker room. McManus, an 11-year NFL veteran, has shared his knowledge of game preparation, handling media pressure, and staying focused during long games with Little. The two have spent time watching film together, with McManus pointing out tendencies of opposing special teams units and offering advice on how to adjust kicks based on weather conditions. “Brandon has been amazing,” Little said. “He didn’t have to help me, but he’s gone out of his way to share what he’s learned over the years. That says a lot about his character, and I’m grateful for his guidance.” McManus’s willingness to mentor Little has also helped maintain a positive team culture, showing younger players that competition doesn’t have to be bitter. For the Jacksonville Jaguars, this camaraderie is invaluable—it ensures that the kicking unit remains cohesive, even as roles change. Pederson noted, “Having Brandon stay involved and help Cam grow is a win-win for everyone. It keeps Cam humble and hungry, and it shows our younger players what it means to be a professional. That’s the kind of culture we’re building here.”

Looking ahead, Cam Little Named Starting Kicker for Jacksonville Jaguars is a decision that could have a significant impact on the Jaguars’ season. If Little can maintain his college-level accuracy in the NFL, he’ll provide the Jaguars with a reliable scoring option that they’ve been missing in recent years. His ability to make long field goals will also force opposing defenses to play more conservatively, as they’ll have to account for the threat of a field goal from 50+ yards out. This could open up more opportunities for the Jaguars’ offense, as opposing teams may be less likely to blitz or take risks on defense for fear of giving up a long field goal attempt. Little is well aware of the pressure that comes with being an NFL starting kicker, but he’s embracing it. “I’ve dreamed of this moment since I was a kid,” Little said. “The Jaguars gave me a chance, and I’m going to do everything I can to repay their trust. Whether it’s a 20-yard extra point or a 55-yard field goal, I’ll be ready to step up and help this team win.” For the Jacksonville Jaguars, Cam Little’s promotion is more than just a roster move—it’s a sign that they’re building a team that can compete at the highest level, with every position filled by a player who has the talent and mindset to succeed. As the regular season begins, all eyes will be on Little, and the Jaguars are confident he’ll be ready to deliver.