What Happened to Nicholas Alexander Folk?
Nick Folk is an American professional football placekicker who has played for multiple NFL teams since 2007. Known for his remarkable longevity and accuracy, Folk signed a two-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons on March 9, 2026, continuing his career into his 19th NFL season at age 41. He spent the 2025 season with the New York Jets, where he led the league in field goal percentage for the third consecutive year.
Quick Answer
Nick Folk, the veteran NFL placekicker, signed a two-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons on March 9, 2026, at the age of 41. He is set to embark on his 19th NFL season, continuing a career marked by exceptional accuracy, particularly in recent years. In the 2025 season with the New York Jets, Folk converted 28 of 29 field goal attempts, leading the league in field goal percentage for the third consecutive year. He remains one of the most reliable kickers in the league.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline12 events
Drafted by Dallas Cowboys and Pro Bowl Selection
Nick Folk was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the sixth round (178th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft and earned a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie season.
Joins New York Jets (First Stint)
Folk signed with the New York Jets, where he would play for seven seasons, becoming the franchise's second-leading all-time scorer.
Sets Jets Franchise Record
During his first tenure with the Jets, Folk set a team record with 32 consecutive field goals made.
Brief Stint with Tampa Bay Buccaneers
After leaving the Jets, Folk played a season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
NFL Comeback with New England Patriots
Following a year away from the NFL, Folk signed with the New England Patriots, marking a significant comeback in his career.
Co-leads NFL in Scoring
Folk tied with Daniel Carlson for the most points scored in the NFL during the 2021 season, converting 36 of 39 field goals and 42 of 47 extra points.
Sets NFL Record for Consecutive FGs Under 50 Yards
Folk set an NFL record for most consecutive field goals under 50 yards, hitting his 57th consecutive before the streak ended at 64.
Traded to Tennessee Titans
Folk was traded from the New England Patriots to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round draft pick, where he continued his accurate kicking.
Returns to New York Jets (Second Stint)
Folk signed a one-year contract to return to the New York Jets, marking his second tenure with the team.
Leads NFL in Field Goal Percentage
At 41 years old, Folk had an elite season with the Jets, converting 28 of 29 field goals (96.6%) and all 22 extra points, leading the NFL in field goal percentage for the third consecutive year.
Announces Intent to Play 19th NFL Season
Despite speculation, NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported that Folk plans to play his 19th NFL season in 2026, continuing his remarkable longevity.
Signs Two-Year Deal with Atlanta Falcons
Folk agreed to terms on a two-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons, securing his place in the league for the upcoming seasons.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
Nicholas 'Nick' Folk has carved out a remarkably long and successful career as a placekicker in the National Football League, defying typical age-related declines for athletes. Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2007, he quickly made an impact, earning a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie year. After stints with the Cowboys and a significant tenure with the New York Jets from 2010 to 2016, Folk briefly played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2017 before a year away from the NFL.
His career saw a resurgence starting in 2019 when he joined the New England Patriots, where he played for four seasons and even co-led the league in scoring in 2021. Folk then moved to the Tennessee Titans for the 2023 and 2024 seasons, maintaining high levels of accuracy. A key turning point in his later career has been his consistent elite performance, particularly from 2023 onwards, where he has been the NFL's most accurate kicker.
In July 2025, Folk returned to the New York Jets for his second tenure with the team. The 2025 season proved to be another stellar year for the then 41-year-old, as he converted 28 of 29 field goal attempts (96.6%) and all 22 of his extra-point tries across 16 games. This performance marked his third consecutive season leading the NFL in field goal percentage. He also showcased his clutch ability, hitting a 56-yard game-winning field goal in Week 13 against the Atlanta Falcons.
As of March 3, 2026, reports confirmed Folk's intention to play a 19th NFL season, despite speculation about retirement. Just days later, on March 9, 2026, Folk officially agreed to terms on a two-year contract with the Atlanta Falcons. This move signifies a new chapter for Folk, who will bring his consistent leg to a dome environment, potentially offering more stable kicking conditions. His market value was estimated around $4.8 million prior to signing with the Falcons. His continued success at an advanced age for an NFL player highlights his dedication and refined technique, making him a sought-after asset in free agency.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Nicholas Alexander Folk made different choices?