Florida Gators kicker Durkin named to Lou Groza Award watch list
Patrick Durkin’s 89.3% field goal accuracy at Tulane positions him as a contender for the annual award, which recognises the best kicker in US college football.
Florida Gators transfer kicker Patrick Durkin has been included on the Lou Groza Award preseason watch list, a roster that highlights the top collegiate placekickers in the United States. The 35-player list was announced on Friday, marking a significant step in Durkin’s transition to the SEC programme as he seeks to establish himself as a premier specialist in college football.
Durkin arrived in Gainesville via the transfer portal from Tulane, bringing with him a statistically robust record from his time with the Green Wave. Last season, he successfully converted 25 of 28 field goal attempts, achieving an 89.3 per cent accuracy rate. This performance ranks second among returning Football Bowl Subdivision kickers who made at least 20 field goals, while his total of 25 attempts is tied for the second most within that same cohort.
The selection committee evaluated returning kickers based on career achievements, statistical performance, consistency, and projected impact for the upcoming season. Durkin’s inclusion reflects his strong credentials, particularly given that his field goal accuracy and volume place him among the elite returnees. The watch list serves as the initial phase of a rigorous selection process that culminates in the awarding of the title to the nation’s top kicker.
Florida special teams coach Johnathan Galante noted that Durkin is adapting well to his new environment. Speaking during the fall camp press conference, Galante stated that the redshirt sophomore, originally from Chicago, Illinois, is "getting comfortable" and finished spring ball better than he started. Durkin connected on three field goals during the Gators’ spring game in April, though he missed a 49-yard attempt as time expired.
The Lou Groza Award is named for Pro Football Hall of Fame kicker Lou Groza, who played 21 seasons with the Cleveland Browns and was named NFL Player of the Year in 1954. In recognition of the award’s 35th anniversary, this year’s watch list was expanded to 35 players. Semifinalists will be announced on 17 November, followed by three finalists on 24 November, with the winner to be selected on 10 December during the Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN.
