Raiders shockingly waive kicker Giorgio Tavecchio

The Oakland Raiders have already made a big decision about their kicker for the upcoming season.

The Raiders have waived kicker Giorgio Tavecchio, as first reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal’s Michael Gehlkin. The news means the Raiders like rookie Eddy Pineiro for the starting job.

A shocker: Raiders have notified Giorgio Tavecchio he's been waived, source said. Incumbent kicker was competing with rookie Eddy Pineiro. Veteran Mike Nugent signed in his place. Team now has two right-footed kickers competing. Holder Johnny Townsend had been alternating in camp

— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) August 4, 2018

Tavecchio went just 16-for-21 on his field goal attempts last season, which falls below what NFL teams want out of their kicker. He was chosen by the Raiders to replace Sebastian Janikowski last year. It was the 28-year-old’s first career NFL regular season action after years on practice squads.

Pineiro likely winning the job isn’t necessarily a surprise, but what is surprising is the timing of Tavecchio being cut. The move not only came very early in camp, but also on a day when Tavecchio mostly kicked well, according to Gehlken.

Giorgio Tavecchio waived on same day he went perfect 6-for-6 on his daily set, although he missed a long try later. Raiders will continue their competition to determine third kicker in three years. https://t.co/3BzSXO1SA6

— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) August 4, 2018

Pineiro was an 88-percent kicker at Florida, and known for his strong leg.

Veteran Mike Nugent has also been added to compete with Pineiro.