Ryan Fitzgerald Impresses Patriots in Private Workout Ahead of NFL Draft

Foxborough, Massachusetts — Florida State kicker Ryan Fitzgerald conducted a private workout with the New England Patriots as he prepares for the 2025 NFL Draft. The session, part of a series of workouts with NFL teams, showcased Fitzgerald’s impressive skills following a standout college career.

Fitzgerald, a First-Team All-American and Lou Groza Award finalist, had an exceptional season in 2024, going 13-for-13 on field goals and successfully converting all 14 extra-point attempts. His consistency has made him a prominent candidate as teams look to bolster their kicking game.

“It was a really cool experience,” Fitzgerald said, reflecting on his workout with the Patriots. “I was around a great group of guys and it was definitely an experience I’ll cherish for a long time.”

The Seminoles’ kicker ranks third in school history with six field goals of 50 yards or longer and is seventh all-time in total field goals made with 58. His scoring total of 352 points places him fifth on Florida State’s all-time list.

“I’ve had my first private workout with the Patriots, and I have more workouts lined up with the Washington Commanders and Baltimore Ravens,” Fitzgerald noted. “I’m excited to show these teams what I can do.”

Fitzgerald has made significant strides since a difficult 2022 season, during which he revamped his kicking technique. “I changed my swing midway through 2022 and finished the season strong,” he explained. “Once I found the swing I was most comfortable with, it was over. I’ve improved that swing over the years.”

During his time at Florida State, Fitzgerald appeared in 56 games, converting 78.4% of his field goal attempts and achieving a remarkable 97.8% conversion rate on extra points. He expressed his confidence leading up to the draft.

“Having the range to execute kicks from wherever is a weapon,” Fitzgerald stated. “I’m going to put points on the board for our team.”

With Fitzgerald’s track record and impressive physical performances, including making a career-long 59-yard field goal, he has emerged as arguably the top kicker available in this draft class. His consistent performance from distance combined with his accuracy on routine kicks makes him an appealing option for teams looking to solidify their special teams.

The Patriots, who are currently evaluating their roster options, previously signed Joey Slye in free agency and have John Parker Romo as their only kicker active on the roster. Fitzgerald represents a potential solution as the team seeks to enhance its kicking game, either through the draft or free agent signings.