Former Georgia and Indianapolis kicker Rodrigo Blankenship recently participated in a UFL tryout event. Approximately 30-35 kickers participated. They divided into three groups of 10 and further split into two heats of five for competition. The tryout began with the kickoff portion, where kickers adjusted to the UFL’s unique rule of kicking off from the 20-yard line instead of the NFL’s 35-yard line.
Blankenship kicked against the wind during his first attempt, reaching the 15-yard line. His second and third kicks landed at the 7-yard and 6-yard lines, respectively.
The field goal portion followed, where he impressed after making all six of his intermediate kicks from 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, and 46 yards. The group then moved to long-distance attempts, where he converted a 53-yarder from the left hash and a 56-yarder from the right hash.
Reflecting on his performance, the kicker said:
“I’m happy with the distance on two of my kickoffs. I’m glad I hit all of my field goals because accuracy is what everyone focuses on.”
As the UFL season doesn’t start until March, he remains hopeful for an opportunity with an NFL team as the regular season enters its final weeks.
Blankenship will always be a fan favorite for Georgia Bulldog fans.
