Dallas Cowboys: What to expect from new kicker Mike Nugent

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CINCINNATI, OH – OCTOBER 12: Mike Nugent #2 of the Cincinnati Bengals walks off of the field after missing what would have been the game-winning field goal attempt in overtime against the Carolina Panthers at Paul Brown Stadium on October 12, 2014 in Cincinnati, Ohio. Cincinnati and Carolina tied 37-37. (Photo by John Grieshop/Getty Images) /

By signing kicker Mike Nugent, the Dallas Cowboys mercifully relieved safety Jeff Heath from kicking duties. Here’s what to expect next.

It was definitely a treat for Dallas Cowboys fans to watch safety Jeff Heath forced into spur of the moment kicking duties last Sunday.

Without preparation and not having kicked in a game since high school, Heath did surprisingly well considering the jolting call to action.

Of course the reason for the entertainment isn’t fun for Cowboys fans. Losing Pro Bowl kicker Dan Bailey for at least a few weeks to a groin injury is a harsh blow.

Bailey is the most accurate kicker in NFL history. He’s also a rare breed who gives the offense a realistic chance at points even kicking from 60 yards out.

First off, Mike Nugent will not approach Bailey’s legendary abilities. At the same time, fearing he may cause more harm than good is baseless worry.

Over the summer Nugent was locked into a training camp battle for the Giants kicking role. Just prior he was the starting kicker for the Bengals since 2010.

Rookie Aldrick Rosas displayed in camp he could handle the job, which then allowed New York to go younger and cheaper.

On the surface Nugent is a veteran with 10 years NFL starting experience.

Let’s take a closer look at his leg and what he brings to Dallas.

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