On Tuesday, the Philadelphia Eagles let go of their only punter, Arryn Siposs. With just 12 days until their season opener, the team is without a punter. Many fans believe the answer might be Matt Araiza, known as “Punt God.”
However, Araiza was released by the Buffalo Bills last season after claims arose accusing him of being involved in a serious incident. While the police did not charge Araiza due to insufficient evidence, the legal challenges aren’t over. The young woman involved took the matter to civil court. Araiza, asserting his innocence, has decided not to settle and has even filed a countersuit.
Despite the legal cloud, Araiza is considered among the top available punters right now. With every other NFL team seemingly settled on their punter, the Eagles, aiming for a Super Bowl run, are in need.
If I am Howie Roseman I am signing punter Matt Araiza immediately.
Eagles punting situation is bad. Araiza has been cleared of all wrongdoing and can launch 80 yard nukes. Do it.
— State of the Eagles (@StateofEagles) August 25, 2023
It’s Matt Araiza time @Eagles https://t.co/g8m44KDvzH
— Tom Wendell (@tomwendell) August 29, 2023
The good news for the Eagles is there's a punter available whose nickname is literally "Punt God"
Matt Araiza was drafted by the Bills last year and then had his career derailed by a false allegation of rape that evidence showed his accuser made up
Bring @matt_araiza to Philly! https://t.co/3B26HUGq7Y
— Greg Price (@greg_price11) August 29, 2023
At this point just ask one of us fans to punt
There’s only one clear answer and it Araiza https://t.co/hqwbjm4wNz— Jordan Domond (@YungMelaninGod) August 28, 2023
What are the Eagles waiting for on signing Araiza ?
— BIG MAN ON CAMPUS (@JeffNadu) August 29, 2023
Matt Araiza please https://t.co/CucHqLHvka
— 👨🏼🦲Jeff✌🏼☝🏼🖐🏼 (@Philly_Bul215) August 22, 2023
Matt Araiza’s agency (@JLSports3) retweeted our tweet regarding Eagles fans potential hopes of him joining the team. 👀 pic.twitter.com/eWgsKUP45S
— Eagles Nation (@PHLEaglesNation) August 29, 2023
They’ve shown in the past they’re willing to consider players with legal concerns. They drafted Jalen Carter after he was involved in a tragic accident. However, Carter’s legal issues were resolved by the time the draft took place. Araiza’s situation is ongoing, but he’s stood firm on his innocence, and some supporting evidence has emerged.
Eagles fans have been vocal, with many voicing their opinions on X, previously known as Twitter. They want the team to at least give Araiza a tryout. To date, only the Jets have given him a workout but didn’t sign him.
Given the pressing need, the Eagles might have to make a decision soon. Will they call Araiza?
More updates to come…