Younghoe Koo has been the face of reliability for the Atlanta Falcons‘ special teams since 2019. A Pro Bowl selection in 2020, Koo’s leg was a beacon of consistency in a franchise often searching for stability. But the 2024 season marked a downturn; he converted only 25 of 34 field goal attempts, a 73.5% success rate that fell below his usual standards. Adding to Raheem Morris’ concern, a right hip injury in December 2024 led to a stint on injured reserve, further disrupting his rhythm.

The 2025 season began with a critical miss. In Week 1 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the South Korean kicker had a chance to tie the game late but missed a 44-yard field goal. Despite making two earlier kicks, that miss loomed large. The Falcons’ coaching staff, led by the head coach, couldn’t afford to overlook the inconsistency.

Morris didn’t mince words when discussing the team’s kicking situation on September 15. “You know, there is about a 90% chance that (John Parker) Romo’s our kicker for next week. There’s no doubt about that. I wouldn’t even sit here and act like it’s an open competition because the guy just went five for five. You want to see it again, you want to see it in a different atmosphere….He did a heck of a job,” Morris stated, signaling a shift in the team’s approach and Koo’s uncertain future.

John Parker Romo signed with the Falcons’ practice squad on September 9, 2025. Romo’s journey to the NFL has been unconventional. After going undrafted in 2022, he spent time with the New Orleans Saints and had a notable stint with the San Antonio Brahmas in the XFL. In 2024, Romo appeared in four games for the Minnesota Vikings, converting 11 of 12 field goal attempts, including nine from 40 or more yards. His performance caught the Falcons’ attention, leading to his elevation to the active roster. And in his first game with the Falcons, Romo showcased his potential.

He connected on all five of his field goal attempts, including a 54-yarder, contributing significantly to the team’s 22-6 victory over the Minnesota Vikings. His flawless performance not only secured the win but also solidified his position as the team’s primary kicker moving forward.

Hence, the Falcons’ decision to move forward with Romo underscores the organization’s commitment to performance and accountability. While Koo’s past achievements are undeniable, the team’s current trajectory necessitates consistency and reliability in all phases of the game. As the season progresses, the Falcons will be watching closely, but for now, the kicking duties belong to John Parker Romo.

Raheem Morris’ Falcons register dominating win over Vikings in prime time

The Atlanta Falcons didn’t just win, they dominated. A 22-6 victory in Minnesota on primetime left the Vikings reeling. Raheem Morris’ RB Bijan Robinson set the tone early, rushing for 143 yards on 22 carries. His first 25-yard run could’ve gone all the way if cornerback Theo Jackson hadn’t chased him down. Robinson added multiple long gains, exposing a Vikings run defense missing Blake Cashman and Andrew Van Ginkel.

Minnesota’s offense, led by quarterback J.J. McCarthy in his second career start, was a mess. McCarthy threw for just 158 yards, tossed two interceptions, and lost a fumble on a strip-sack. Key moments, like first-and-goal at Atlanta’s 2-yard line, ended in a short field goal. The offensive line struggled, with left tackle Christian Darrisaw sidelined, Justin Skule and center Ryan Kelly leaving with concussions, and Walter Rouse called for holding. McCarthy was sacked six times, and the young QB has to improve quickly.

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Moreover, special teams added the finishing touch. Former Vikings kicker Parker Romo was perfect on five field goals, including a game-winning 54-yarder in the fourth quarter. His performance highlighted Atlanta’s precision and reliability, turning what could have been a grind into a statement game.