The Washington Commanders have signed Pro Bowl kicker Matt Gay to a one-year contract worth $4.25 million, fully guaranteed, marking the highest guaranteed amount for a kicker on a one-year deal in NFL history.

Despite his challenges, Gay boasts an overall career field goal percentage of 85.5%, having improved significantly since his rocky start with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2019.

Gay joins the Commanders after being released by the Indianapolis Colts, where he struggled to meet expectations over two seasons, making 64 of 78 field goal attempts for an 82.1% success rate.

Gonzalez, who played six regular-season games for the Commanders, successfully converted five of seven field goals and all extra points before being cut after signing a one-year deal earlier this year.

Releasing Gonzalez will save the Commanders $1.030 million against the salary cap, a strategic move as they aim to enhance their kicking game for the upcoming season.

The Commanders are looking to bounce back in 2025 after a challenging season, where they eliminated the Buccaneers from the playoffs and advanced to the NFC Championship game.

This signing comes on the heels of the Commanders releasing Zane Gonzalez, who had a successful but brief tenure with the team, making 7 of 8 field goals during Washington's playoff run.

Last season, Washington used four different kickers, collectively converting 34 of 42 field goal attempts, which ranked them 24th in field goal percentage despite a solid number of attempts.

Gay's previous experience includes a successful stint with the Los Angeles Rams, where he was named to the Pro Bowl and won a Super Bowl in 2021.

The Commanders have faced ongoing issues with kickers, including injuries and off-field problems, which have prompted multiple changes in their kicking roster.

As part of their strategy to improve, the Commanders have also focused on offensive and defensive upgrades during the recent 2025 NFL Draft.

Gay's contract includes performance incentives that could increase his total compensation to $5 million, reflecting the team's investment in bolstering their kicking game.