Jake Elliott: The Clutch Kicker Behind the Philadelphia Eagles' Success in 2024

When the Philadelphia Eagles needed an ice-cold kicker to step up in the biggest moments, Jake Elliott has consistently delivered. From his early days in La Grange, IL, to becoming one of the NFL’s premier kickers, Elliott’s journey has cemented him as a key player in determining the Eagles’ success in 2024.

In his eighth season with the Eagles, Jake Elliott has evolved into one of the most dependable and clutch kickers in the league. His performances this season have not only kept Philadelphia in playoff contention but also earned him recognition across the NFL. Just this year, Elliott was dubbed the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week after a standout performance in a thrilling overtime victory against the Buffalo Bills, where he nailed a game-tying 59-yard field goal in the dying moments of regular time. But Elliott's story goes far beyond individual awards.

Jake Elliott’s Journey to the NFL

Born on January 21, 1995, in La Grange, Illinois, Jake Elliott’s rise to NFL stardom wasn’t easy. He played college football at Memphis, where he honed his kicking prowess and caught the eyes of NFL scouts. In 2017, Elliott was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles after an injury to their starting kicker at the time, Caleb Sturgis. In what can only be described as a whirlwind freshman season, Elliott quickly became a hero, notably making a 61-yard game-winning field goal against the New York Giants, a kick that remains an iconic moment in Eagles folklore.

Fast forward to 2024, and that rookie kicker has blossomed into one of the NFL’s most reliable players, meeting—and often exceeding—the lofty expectations placed upon him after Philadelphia’s magical Super Bowl season of 2017.

2024: A Season to Remember for Eagles Kicker Jake Elliott

In what has been a highly competitive season for the Eagles, Jake Elliott’s leg has been an indispensable weapon in their arsenal. The 2024 season hasn’t been without its challenges, but Elliott has shined brightest in critical moments.

His statistics back it all up: Elliott has made 92% of his field goals, including seven from beyond 50 yards. Performances like these have contributed to the Eagles' successful campaign thus far, keeping them in the hunt for NFC dominance. His consistency over the years and ability to step up in clutch situations led to a well-deserved—and lucrative—contract extension that keeps him tied with the Birds through 2028.

Read more about Jake Elliott’s recent contract extension here.

Earning Respect as a Special Teams Powerhouse

It’s not just about the numbers for Elliott, though. He’s earned a reputation for being the go-to guy when the game is on the line. He became a household name not only in the Eagles’ locker room but also across football circles. In 2024, he's one of the faces of Philadelphia’s special teams unit.

Earlier this season, Elliott was the difference in several narrow wins, none more notable than his game-winning field goals in OT. For these efforts, he has been recognized as the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week multiple times, a testament to his growing legacy as a prominent NFL kicker.

Check out Jake Elliott’s NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors here.

Impact Beyond the Gridiron

Jake Elliott’s contributions aren’t just limited to Sundays. Off the field, the Eagles kicker plays a prominent role in serving the Philadelphia community. In a touching display earlier this season, Elliott collaborated with the Little Caesars Love Kitchen to serve meals to those struggling with food scarcity at the Bethesda Project in Philadelphia. This is just one of the many endeavors Elliott has embraced as an integral part of the Eagles’ mission to give back to their city.

Stories like these showcase Elliott’s character and reinforce why he’s not only beloved for his performance as a football player but also for his role as a community leader.

Looking Ahead: Jake Elliott’s Contract Extension and Future

The Eagles clearly see Jake Elliott as part of their long-term solution on special teams, which was reinforced when the two parties agreed to a four-year contract extension earlier this season. The deal keeps Elliott in midnight green through 2028, ensuring that one of the NFL’s best kickers will continue kicking for Philadelphia in the foreseeable future.

The team’s confidence in him is shared by fans. Whether it’s making critical long-range field goals or calmly knocking extra points through the uprights, Elliott can be relied upon in pivotal moments.

See Jake Elliott’s full career stats on NFL.com.

Conclusion: The Eagles’ Secret Weapon for 2024

Jake Elliott has proven that he's more than just a kicker—he's a true game-changer. Be it nailing lengthy field goals from way downtown, or making the most of every opportunity to help his team, this 2024 season has shown why Elliott is considered one of the best in the game.

With clutch plays week after week, and a future secured in Philadelphia, Jake Elliott is undoubtedly one of the key factors driving the Eagles’ success in 2024 and beyond.

Stay tuned, Eagles fans, because if this season is any indicator, we’re bound to see Jake Elliott etch his name into more historical moments for the franchise.