Raiders nickname Kansei Matsuzawa as Special K amid kicking competition
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 10, 2026, 6:28 PM
Last updated Jun 10, 2026
Kansei Matsuzawa, a rookie kicker for the Raiders, is now dubbed "Special K" by teammates and coaches. This follows his previous nickname, "The Tokyo Toe," which his teammates found cumbersome. Special teams coordinator Greg DeCamillis noted Matsuzawa's skill and unique story of self-taught kicking that began after his inspiration at a Raiders game in 2018. The competition for the kicking position is ongoing, with established kicker Matt Gay providing guidance to Matsuzawa as he aims for a spot on the roster.
- •Matsuzawa has been self-taught since picking up football at age 19.
- •The nickname change reflects his teammates' preference for ease of use.
- •Greg DeCamillis expresses optimism about Matsuzawa's future in the league.
- •Matt Gay is aiding Matsuzawa in refining his kicking technique.
- •Matsuzawa's competition for the kicker role continues this summer.
- 6:28 PMYahoo Sports — Raiders coaches, teammates have new nickname for Kansei Matsuzawa
"Kansei Matsuzawa has a tremendous nickname of The Tokyo Toe. But his Raiders teammates and coaches have come up with their own.
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