Giants Set to Turn to Younghoe Koo as Kicking Duties Shift Following Gano’s Injury

With veteran kicker Graham Gano sidelined due to a groin injury, the New York Giants are poised to lean on Younghoe Koo, a former Falcons kicker, to assume kicking responsibilities.

However, a competition with Jude McAtamney remains in play as the team navigates this sudden change.

Gano sustained a groin injury during pregame warmups ahead of the Giants’ Week 3 game, significantly impacting his availability.

While he managed to convert a 25-yard field goal during that game, it was clear the discomfort affected his performance.

Reports suggest that Gano may be placed on injured reserve, which would sideline him for at least four weeks, prompting the Giants to explore alternatives quickly.

On September 23, the Giants signed Koo to their practice squad, adding a seasoned kicking option to their roster.

Koo was recently released by the Atlanta Falcons after a rocky start to the 2025 season, including a missed 44-yard attempt in the opener.

Despite this, Koo boasts a solid career, having joined the Falcons in 2019 and earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2020 after converting 37 of 39 field goal attempts.

He left Atlanta as their third all-time leading scorer with 700 points.

However, Koo’s recent form has raised concerns, as he had a disappointing 2024 season, missing 11 field goal attempts, six from 49 yards or closer.

Many believe a change of environment could help him regain confidence, and special teams coordinator Michael Ghobrial is optimistic about Koo’s ability to adjust and build chemistry with the team’s holder and long snapper.

While Koo is considered the frontrunner, Jude McAtamney is also in the mix.

The Irish kicker, who was added to the Giants’ practice squad through the International Player Pathway Program, has limited NFL experience, having appeared in one game last season.

With Gano likely headed to injured reserve, McAtamney could be elevated to start if he wins the competition or is the only option left standing.

As the Giants prepare for their Week 4 matchup against the Chargers, several factors will influence who emerges as their kicker:

Practice Performance & Consistency: Accuracy under pressure and consistency from various distances will be critical during practice sessions.
Snap-Hold-Kick Synchronization: Timing and rapport with the long snapper and holder are essential; even a talented kicker can falter without seamless coordination.
Mental Toughness: The ability to perform in high-stress moments will likely be the deciding factor in the competition.
Injury or Roster Moves: Depending on Gano’s recovery, the Giants may lean more heavily on their new kicker for an extended period.

The New York Giants face a pivotal moment in their kicking department following Gano’s injury.

Younghoe Koo brings experience and a proven track record, though with recent doubts about his performance.

Conversely, Jude McAtamney offers youth and potential upside.

The upcoming practices will determine which kicker the Giants trust to step up in critical moments.