2018 NFL Week 2 Takeaways: Patrick Mahomes melts the Steelers and more

PITTSBURGH, PA - SEPTEMBER 16: Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs drops back to pass in the first half during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on September 16, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

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GREEN BAY, WI – SEPTEMBER 16: Daniel Carlson #7 of the Minnesota Vikings (R) reacts after missing a potential game-winning field goal in overtime against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on September 16, 2018 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Vikings and the Packers tied 29-29 after overtime. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /

Maybe it’s time to stop underappreciating good kickers

The Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings have to be wondering about their various decisions at kicker this offseason. Cleveland allowed Cody Parkey to walk in 2017 in favor of draft pick Zane Gonzalez. He now has missed three kicks in two weeks, costing his team two victories over the Steelers and Saints.

Minnesota dumped the steady Kai Forbath in favor of rookie Daniel Carlson. He missed three field goals in Green Bay, resulting in a 29-29 tie in what should’ve been a huge win at Green Bay. Maybe this will remind teams that dumping someone who’s solid in favor of that shiny, new toy doesn’t always work. It even applies to the kicker position.

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