New York Jets kicker Sergio Castillo credits CFL for preparing him to succeed in the NFL

Sergio Castillo hasn’t forgotten where he came from.

The New York Jets kicker credits his time in the Canadian football League for his instant success with gang green.

“It’s been a journey to get here and I’ve been very fortunate the past five years that I’ve been kicking in the CFL. That has prepared me for these moments. I appreciate the B.C. Lions last year giving me an opportunity,” Castillo told Jets team reporter Ethan Greenberg.

Castillo made his first four career NFL field goals, a positive start with the Jets. His fifth and most recent attempt was blocked. He went three-for-three in the first half of New York’s Week 8 game against the Kansas City Chiefs, making field goals from lengths of 39, 55, and 48 yards.

Photo courtesy: New York Jets

“I’m just trying to put food on the table for my future baby that’s coming in January. That’s a little more motivation. The fact that they signed me shows the confidence that they have in me,” Castillo said.

“Coach [Brant] Boyer and coach Hammer [Jeff Hammerschmidt] for them two to have the confidence in me and give me the green light, I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”

Castillo signed a practice roster agreement with the Jets on October 14. He made his regular season NFL debut in Week 7 during an 18-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills, making his lone field goal attempt from 29 yards out.

“It happened real quick. There’s a lot of people that have helped me along this road and I’m very grateful. My mind set — it doesn’t matter if I’m on the practice roster or on the active roster, I’m going to find a way to help the team out,” Castillo said.

The former member of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, Ottawa Redblacks, Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and Lions has kicked 80-of-92 field goal attempts (87 percent) in the CFL with a long of 57 yards. He opted out of his contract to pursue the NFL following the cancellation of the 2020 season in Canada.

“It’s been a long journey to get here, it took me six years since college. I’m very grateful for the moment that I’m in and I’m just trying to find a way to put my part in for the team,” Castillo, the West Texas A&M University graduate, said.

“If I’m starting, find a way to put points on the board, and if I’m on the practice squad support the team vocally.”