The Dallas Cowboys have added Tristan Vizcaino to their practice squad after starting kicker Brett Maher’s historic struggles in the playoffs. Maher, who missed four extra point attempts in the Cowboys’ 31-14 Wild Card victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, set an NFL record for the most missed extra points in a game, a feat not seen since 1932.
This performance marked a remarkable departure from his otherwise strong season, where he had successfully converted 90.6% of his field goals and 94.3% of his extra points.
Despite these challenges, the Cowboys remain confident in Maher’s abilities and have emphasized their commitment to supporting him. Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy noted the importance of ensuring Maher is well-prepared for the upcoming game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Special teams coordinator John Fassel attributed Maher’s performance to the “yips,” a common term for sudden, unexplained loss of skill, and expressed optimism that Maher would regain his form.
Vizcaino, now in his fifth NFL season, brings experience and reliability to the practice squad. He has played in three games this year for the Arizona Cardinals and New England Patriots and has successfully made all five of his attempts in a game for Arizona.
Vizcaino’s contract with the Cowboys’ practice squad includes a weekly salary of $11,500. NFL rules permit teams to raise two practice squad players on game day, providing flexibility for the Cowboys as they prepare for future games.