Will Reichard redefined the perception of his position at Alabama. The former Crimson Tide kicker and Hoover native silenced the jokes and memes that had surrounded the role during the Nick Saban era, eventually becoming the NCAA’s all-time leading scorer.
Now Reichard is heading to the NFL, and Graham Nicholson, a transfer from Miami of Ohio, is stepping in to fill his shoes.
“Graham has been very consistent,” Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer said after the team’s fourth preseason camp practice on Sunday. “Honestly, all of our kickers have been solid, but with Graham, I stand behind him, trying to make every kick. There might be one I miss here and there, but his ball flight is exactly what we’re looking for.”
Nicholson, who won the Lou Groza Award last season as the nation’s top kicker—beating out Reichard, much to the disappointment of Alabama fans—made 27 of 28 field goals, with a long of 52 yards. He’s already made a strong impression in Tuscaloosa early in camp.
“I like his mindset,” DeBoer added. “He’s a very confident guy. I’m not sure how he’ll react if he ever misses one, but if that happens, we’ll see. He’s a great addition to our team, and the players have really embraced him. Given his past performance, you can see why we’re excited to have him. He has a good process, and we’re glad he’s here.”
Conor Talty was initially expected to take over the starting role before Nicholson’s arrival, but Nicholson is now the frontrunner. Nonetheless, DeBoer made sure to commend Talty and the rest of Alabama’s special teams unit, including punter James Burnip.
“Burnip, along with (long snapper) Kneeland Hibbett, and Conor have all performed well in camp,” DeBoer said. “I really believe our specialists will be among the best in the country.”
Alabama returns to practice on Tuesday, with their season opener set for August 31 against Western Kentucky.
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