Patriots kicker Chad Ryland knows the numbers.

The numbers that defined one of the worst kicking seasons in recent memory.

Related Articles

2023 second-round pick appears primed for ‘Year 2 jump’ with Patriots

‘Radio’s still gonna be around’: 98.5 The Sports Hub has deal to broadcast Patriots games through 2033

Dont’a Hightower had ‘welcome to coaching’ moment at Patriots OTAs

Jacoby Brissett’s familiarity with Patriots offense gives entire unit an advantage

Brian Belichick reveals why he stayed with Patriots after dad, brother’s departures

Sixty-four percent overall on field goals as a rookie last year. Fifty percent beyond 40 yards.

Ryland is now in a position battle with veteran Joey Slye during the team’s ongoing OTA practices because of those numbers. And after some time away, the former fourth-round pick insists he’s ready to rebound.

“I’m certainly looking forward to it. I’m no coward to a challenge,” Ryland said this week. “And (I) certainly want to continue to grow in my craft and will hopefully grow each year and take each offseason moving forward; through how many years I’m blessed to play, as serious as I did this offseason.”

Ryland told reporters he tweaked his fundamentals this offseason, a change he’s continued to make under first-year special teams coordinator Jeremy Springer. Ryland spent part of the offseason with fellow second-year specialist Bryce Baringer and veteran long snapper Joe Cardona. On Wednesday, he went 4-of-5 on field goals to close practice, and Baringer went to bat for his close friend and teammate.

“The kid has always been the hardest worker I’ve probably ever met. He cares so much,” Baringer said. “Last year was last year. It’s the new year now and we’re working on the goals for this season. We’re putting that chapter in the back and we’re always gonna look out the windshield, not the rearview.”

Extra points

According to the NFL Network, rookie quarterback Drake Maye received all $23.467 million of his signing bonus within 14 days of signing, a rare negotiable part of rookie contracts that are largely predetermined by draft slot. Maye and the Patriots agreed to terms on Tuesday after the team drafted him No. 3 overall last month. … The Patriots and pro scout Joe Anile have parted ways, per Inside The League’s Neil Stratton. Anile worked in the team’s scouting department the past two years.