All-Pro specialist from Alabama working to learn to kick straight

Minnesota Vikings kicker Will Reichard is coming off an exceptional 2025 campaign, but the former Alabama standout isn't resting on his laurels. According to Vikings special-teams coordinator Matt Daniels, the All-Pro specialist is pushing to elevate his game even further as he enters his second NFL season.

Chasing Perfection

Reichard delivered a stellar rookie performance, connecting on 33-of-35 field-goal attempts. His range was particularly impressive, as he converted 11-of-13 kicks from 50 yards or beyond, including a career-long 62-yarder. That success earned the Hoover High and Alabama product a spot on The Associated Press’ All-Pro team for the 2025 season.

Despite those accolades, Daniels noted that Reichard is currently refining his mechanics to achieve a more consistent flight path. While he previously utilized a slight draw on his kicks, the team is now working with him to master a true straight ball. This mechanical adjustment involves tightening his plant foot and minimizing his initial approach step.

"He strives for perfection," Daniels said. "He wants to hit a true straight ball. He doesn’t want to fade it, and he doesn’t want to draw it. By hitting that true and straight ball, it eliminates the question of his aiming point and removes a little room for error, especially when we’re playing in difficult elements in places like Green Bay or Chicago."

Adjusting to a New Battery

Reichard faces a transition in his holding unit this offseason following the departure of punter Ryan Wright, who signed with the New Orleans Saints in March. The Vikings are now evaluating two options for the role: rookie Brett Thorson and 14-year veteran Johnny Hekker. Both are working alongside Pro Bowl long snapper Andrew DePaola.

The connection between Reichard and Hekker goes back years, with Daniels noting that a young Reichard once served as a ball-shagger at a camp featuring the veteran punter. Meanwhile, Thorson is impressing the staff with his natural hand-eye coordination. Although Thorson did not hold for field goals at Georgia, Daniels noted that he has looked sharp throughout practice reps.

"Thor is coming along really, really well," Daniels said. "He’s got great hands. We’re working on the timing, but having a guy like Andrew DePaola makes the process much smoother. I’ve watched over 300 snaps of him in practice, and I’m very excited about that player."

The Vikings have one week left in their offseason program before breaking for the summer ahead of training camp.

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