Las Vegas, NV — In a strategic move to strengthen their special teams unit, the Las Vegas Raiders have officially announced the signing of placekicker Rodrigo Blankenship to a two-year contract. The announcement was made jointly by Head Coach Pete Carroll and team executives, signaling the Raiders’ confidence in Blankenship’s ability to deliver consistent and clutch performances.
Blankenship, affectionately known by fans as “Hot Rod” for his trademark glasses and steady kicking under pressure, joins the Raiders after a stint with the St. Louis Battlehawks in the United Football League (UFL). His time in the UFL was viewed as a calculated comeback effort, designed to showcase his abilities and reignite interest from NFL franchises.
“Rodrigo has shown resilience, discipline, and a proven leg,” said Coach Pete Carroll in the official press statement. “We believe he brings the reliability and competitiveness we’re looking for at that position. He’s earned this shot.”
The signing marks a new chapter for Blankenship, whose most recent NFL contract was a 1-year, $940,000 deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023. Despite being sidelined after that season, his strong performances in the UFL—including several game-winning kicks—put him back on the radar of multiple NFL teams.
In a statement released through his agent, Blankenship expressed his excitement about returning to the NFL:
“Joining the Raiders is an incredible opportunity. I’ve worked hard to stay ready and prove myself again, and I’m grateful to Coach Carroll and the organization for believing in me. I can’t wait to get started in Vegas.”
The Raiders’ kicking game struggled with consistency last season, making this acquisition a potential difference-maker as the team looks to build momentum in a competitive AFC West division.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh start in Las Vegas, Rodrigo Blankenship is back in the NFL spotlight—and ready to make every kick count.
