He may have only played four games for the Minnesota Vikings, but kicker John Parker Romo will be missed.
With the return of rookie kicker Will Reichard from injured reserve in time for this week’s matchup with the Atlanta Falcons, the Vikings waived Romo on December 7.
Romo steadied the Vikings, who have an unfortunate history with kickers, through a shaky time without Reichard.
He scored every point in a Week 10 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. He played hero on the road in a Week 12 matchup with the Chicago Bears, hitting the overtime game-winner at Soldier Field. His final act: converting a clutch field goal in a fourth-quarter comeback over the Arizona Cardinals last week.
Romo proved to be a vital part of the Vikings’ five-game winning streak they’ve pieced together after they stumbled coming out of the bye with back-to-back losses. Minnesota has a 99% chance of making the postseason, in part due to Romo’s relief of Reichard.
On his way out of Minnesota, Romo converted 11-of-12 field goals and 7-of-8 extra points in four games — proving that he deserves to be in the NFL after working at a golf course just a month ago.
“For a guy like Parker, he’s just looking for the opportunity,” Daniels said on December 3, per Sports Illustrated. “And I’m glad we were able to give that to him. He truly maximized every single rep. He’s been through the ups and downs of pressure situations from a kicking standpoint in the NFL and he’s answered the call to truly show that he is really deserving of being 1-of-32.
“I do believe that he’ll get another opportunity if it isn’t with the Minnesota Vikings moving forward.”
Vikings Fans Bid Romo Farewell
To be clear, there is a potential for the Vikings to re-sign Romo to the practice squad if he clears waivers on Monday.
However, the end-of-season roster crunch is real in Minnesota. Kicker may not be a priority with Reichard’s return.
why parker romo he was good
— fka BrickWerk (@Brick3BC) December 7, 2024
That reality led many fans to bid Romo farewell.
Thank you John Parker Romo https://t.co/cQc4qI8KX0 pic.twitter.com/bCNjQBEdlK
— 10,000 Takes (@10k_Takes) December 7, 2024
One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Hope this audition helps you get that paycheck!”
Parker Romo, you’re awesome. Hope this audition helps you get that paycheck!#Skol
— ButlerNut (@Vikes_Dawgs) December 7, 2024
Several fan bases chimed in on the news of Romo’s waiver, including Baltimore Ravens fans who have had their frustrations with Justin Tucker this season.
“Just waiting for the Ravens to wise up and sign John Parker Romo,” one fan wrote. “Dude has been money for the Vikings when they really needed it.”
Just waiting for the Ravens to wise up and sign John Parker Romo. Dude has been money for the Vikings when they really needed it.
— Cody Frederick (@CodyFrederick15) December 7, 2024
Regardless of where Romo lands next, he’s certainly earned himself a rack at the Vikings’ team store.
“I still want a Parker Romo jersey,” one fan wrote.
I still want a Parker Romo jersey.
— The Skol Hop (@TheSkolHop) December 7, 2024
If the Vikings make a deep run in the playoffs, there will be some advocates for Romo to get his recognition.
“He gets a full playoff share and a Super Bowl ring or we riot,” one fan lamented.
Fare thee well, John Parker Romo. He gets a full playoff share and a Super Bowl ring or we riot.
Hell, if the #Vikings win the Super Bowl we’re rioting anyway. https://t.co/w6YALUuQq2 pic.twitter.com/5FKasoodjp
— Ted Glover (@purplebuckeye) December 7, 2024
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