Speaking to the media after their Week 8 victory, the New York Jets’ veteran punter spoke about his journey leading up to playing for the Jets
Thomas Morstead is grateful to be a part of the New York Jets.
After a performance that saw the veteran punter total 529 yards on 11 punts, including four that landed inside the Giants’ 20-yard line (and three inside the 5), Morstead was praised by both fans and his teammates. Specifically, D.J. Reed was heard calling Morstead “the GOAT” in the locker room.
D.J. Reed in the locker room called Thomas Morstead “The Goat!” #Jets
— Antwan V. Staley (@antwanstaley) October 29, 2023
The performance was historic for both Morstead and the Jets. His three punts downed inside of the five-yard line was the first time the punter had accomplished the feat in his career, and he is the only player in Jets history to achieve it.
During postgame media availability, Morstead said that the Jets “were the only team that would give him a shot three years ago.” The punter also said the win represented a “full-circle moment” for him.
Jets punter Thomas Morstead gets emotional talking about this win being a full-circle moment for him. Said the Jets were the only team that would give him a shot 3 years ago. “No one would sign me because I’m old.” pic.twitter.com/oTiKB0LXOI
— Andy Vasquez (@andy_vasquez) October 29, 2023
Morstead also spoke about his perspective of watching the Jets come from behind and win the game against the Giants. He said being depended on in big moments is “fun” and “exciting.” The punter then spoke about what being on the Jets has meant to him.
“This was my first team after being released in New Orleans a few years ago. To be back and to feel the level of respect from teammates and coaches, and to be depended on so heavily this year…it’s really, really gratifying. It’s an awesome testament to hanging in there. I’m just really grateful to be here.”
#Jets punter @thomasmorstead started getting emotional after the #Giants win talking w/ @EGreenbergJets, ‘I know it gets overused, guys talking about being part of a family but we have a really unique crew of people here’ + said NYJ took a chance on him & it could’ve gone poorly… pic.twitter.com/0hmKSqHwFh
— Paul Andrew Esden Jr (@BoyGreen25) October 29, 2023
Added to replace Branden Mann, the Jets have reaped the benefits of having a high-level punter. Morstead has given the Jets advantages in the field-position battle all season, allowing the defense to play at a high level. It also has made things easier on the Jets’ offense, giving them opportunities to have shorter fields to score points from.
Morstead is grateful to be with the Jets, but the Jets should be just as grateful that they have Morstead. Without him, there is a good chance this season may look very different.
