PHX Reporter

Once, Chad Ryland and Matt Prater kicked together without being teammates on the Cardinals. At that time, Ryland was playing for Eastern Michigan while Prater was with the Lions. Ryland found an instant idol in Prater.

"We kicked together a couple of times," said Ryland. "He is someone I look up to a ton. I have the utmost respect for Matt and his career, everything about just how he operates. He's a true pro."

Kicking in the NFL can be unpredictable. Last year, Ryland was drafted in the fourth round by the Patriots, a rare occurrence for his position. However, he faced challenges, making only 16-of-24 field goals during a difficult period as Bill Belichick's era came to an end. He was eventually cut before this season began in favor of Joey Slye.

Then Prater suffered a left knee injury, leading the Cardinals to seek a replacement. Ryland stepped in for six games while Prater rehabilitates on IR, possibly longer.

"That was a tough one last year for me," stated Ryland. "No one walks into their rookie year expecting to have the struggles... I am fortunate to go through all that. Learned a lot about myself. It makes being here that much better."

Ryland had one field goal blocked and returned for a touchdown during his debut with the Cardinals but succeeded in his other five attempts (and is 2-for-2 on extra points). His confidence remains high despite past experiences with New England.

Prater is currently 40 years old and in the final year of his contract yet maintains perfect records—6-for-6 on field goals and 10 extra points this season—and poses threats from distances around 60 yards when necessary.

Last year, Ryland scored a game-winning 56-yard field goal (and recently secured victory over the 49ers with another successful kick). The future concerning both him and Prater remains uncertain; however, optimism persists within him.

"If I keep trending in the right direction, which I think I am, I hope to have a career like Matt's someday," expressed Ryland.

Caitlyn Epes/Arizona Cardinals Kicker Chad Ryland is congratulated by holder Blake Gillikin after a field goal in Green Bay.