The identity of Georgia Tech’s kicker for the season opener against Tennessee next Monday was still unknown even to coach Paul Johnson after Monday’s practice.

The Yellow Jackets scrimmaged, and Johnson evidently did not like what he saw from kickers Shawn Davis and Brenton King. He had said previously that he had made up his mind, but said he wasn’t sure following the scrimmage.

“That wasn’t real pretty, either,” Johnson said.

Johnson has labeled placekicking one of the more significant concerns going into the season. Davis is a sophomore walk-on from Union Grove High, and King is a scholarship freshman from Mill Creek High.

King and Davis are competing to succeed Harrison Butker, who set the school’s career scoring record in his four seasons with the Yellow Jackets and is now trying to make the roster of the Carolina Panthers.

What it’s like to compete for a kicking job for Paul Johnson

About the Author

Keep Reading

Jackson State players celebrate victory over South Carolina State in the 2024 Celebration Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The Tigers are once again in contention for a spot in the bowl game. (Hyosub Shin/AJC 2024)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Featured

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones — pictured at an August rally in Peachtree City that also featured Vice President JD Vance — appears to have scored another legal victory over gubernatorial rival Attorney General Chris Carr in their battle over campaign finance issues. (Arvin Temkar/AJC 2025)

Credit: Arvin Temkar / AJC