Isn''t the field goal kicker the most crucial position in football?

[Mike]

If in a game both teams score two touchdowns the kicker on team A gets one of the extra points and the kicker on team B misses one or both extra points. Unless the game is a blowout or shutout, the kicker has the biggest role. Why is the kicker paid so little when he should be paid the most?
Most crucial OFFENSIVE PLAYER.

 

[nygiantsfan]

it isn't offensive and they get paid a decent amount and it's and important position but not as important as a runningback or quarterback.

 

[JetsUnderPats 14-31]

Kickers are very criticial positions yes. Not just for extra points and FG but for field position too.

 

[Information Police]

The place kicker is crucial but a lot of guys can do it, so they aren't paid as much as other positions. It's supply and demand. There are a billion soccer players out there who can step in and with a little training be a passable place kicker in the NFL.

The most clutch FG kicker in recent memory was Adam Viniteri and the Patriots didn't hesitate in letting him go when he got too expensive. Of course, they haven't won a SB since then...

I've seen some analysis saying that teams should concentrate more on getting guys who can kick-off into the endzone and get touchbacks than on guys who can hit long field goals. Everyone can hit short and medium field goals. A long field goal determines a couple of games a year, maybe, but kick-offs determine field position several times in every single game!