If you believe it is hard to be a successful punter in Australia, just consider yourself fortunate that you are not an NFL punter.
Please excuse the weak play on words, but the pun(ter) was intended, since the punter of the NFL variety kicks a football instead of placing wagers on sporting events.
We have often said that being an NFL punter is quite possibly the best job in the world, until it is not, that is.
Consider the case of Britton Colquitt, the long-time punting specialist for the NFL’s Denver Broncos. He was rather unceremoniously given his walking papers after eight years with the team, including last year, when he played a key role in the Bronco’s Super Bowl 50 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
It was not his punting, but rather economics, that prompted the decision. He was owed $3.25 million this season, the final year of a three-year $11.7 million contract.
The Broncos used a late-round draft pick to select Riley Dixon, who will do Colquitt’s job for approximately a $3 million dollar savings over Colquitt.
The Broncos had asked Colquitt to take a pay cut, but when he balked, he was given accurate directions to the exit door in short order.
Colquitt is a lock to catch on with another NFL team, albeit at a reduced rate, but perhaps the Essendon Bombers or the Fremantle Dockers could lure him into a code hopping experiment at AFL glory and riches.
