Kansei Matsuzawa Signs with Las Vegas Raiders as Undrafted Free Agent
Kansei Matsuzawa, a Japanese kicker and University of Hawaii alumnus, signed with the Las Vegas Raiders as an undrafted free agent, aiming for a roster spot.
Kansei Matsuzawa, a 27-year-old kicker from Chiba Prefecture, has signed with the Las Vegas Raiders as an undrafted free agent, a move reported on April 26, 2026. Matsuzawa said the opportunity is a milestone in his transition from college football to the professional ranks and that he intends to treat the signing as the beginning of a larger challenge.
He acknowledged the significance of the moment while stressing the work ahead, noting that his focus will be on preparation and consistency. Matsuzawa’s arrival in the Raiders’ organization marks a notable step for Japanese athletes seeking careers in the NFL.
Matsuzawa’s signing and immediate goals
Matsuzawa completed the formalities to join the Raiders’ offseason roster after not being selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. The undrafted free agent deal gives him the chance to compete in team activities, training camp and preseason for a place on the regular-season roster.
He emphasized accuracy as his primary strength and said his daily approach will be to treat every kick as important. If Matsuzawa secures a spot on the final roster, he would become the first Japanese player to appear in the NFL’s regular season, joining compatriots who have already reached MLB, the NBA and the NHL.
Early athletic background in Chiba
Raised in Chiba Prefecture, Matsuzawa began his sporting life playing soccer at Makuhari Sogo High School, where he developed foot skills and composure that later translated to placekicking. His exposure to American football intensified after attending a live NFL game in the United States, which left a lasting impression and helped shape his ambition.
That first Raider game in person created a particular affinity for the franchise he now joins. Matsuzawa has said he felt a connection to the team from that moment, making his signing with Las Vegas especially meaningful.
Collegiate path: Hocking College to the University of Hawaii
After high school, Matsuzawa attended Hocking College in Ohio, where he refined his kicking technique and adapted to the physical and tactical differences of American football. He later transferred to the University of Hawaii in 2023, competing at the collegiate level and building a reputation for dependable field-goal accuracy.
At Hawaii, coaches and teammates praised his consistency under pressure, a key attribute for a specialist whose margin for error is small. His college performances helped him gain visibility among scouts and ultimately led to selection in international development initiatives.
International Player Pathway and postseason showcases
Matsuzawa was selected to the Class of 2026 in the NFL International Player Pathway program, which is designed to identify and develop talent outside the United States. Participation in the program provided access to professional-level coaching and exposure to NFL personnel who monitor international prospects.
In January he played in The American Bowl All-Star Game for college players, an opportunity to compete against high-level peers and showcase his range and accuracy to pro evaluators. Those appearances were important steps in building a professional profile and demonstrating readiness for the next level.
Roster competition and what comes next in Las Vegas
Matsuzawa faces a familiar crucible for kickers: proving consistent distance, accuracy and reliability in practice and games while withstanding the pressure of roster cuts. The Raiders’ offseason and training-camp schedule will determine how coaches evaluate his performance relative to incumbent kickers and other contenders.
Specialists often earn roster spots through a combination of preseason play and standout practice habits, and Matsuzawa’s emphasis on each kick being important aligns with that model. The team will monitor his accuracy, kickoff work and adaptability to the NFL’s tempo before making final decisions ahead of the regular season.
Japan’s interest in his progress is expected to be significant, given the potential historic nature of his roster success. Should he make the team, Matsuzawa’s presence would extend the list of Japanese athletes who have reached top-tier North American leagues and could encourage deeper scouting of talent from Japan.
Matsuzawa described the signing as a starting point rather than an endpoint, saying he is happy but intent on focusing on the preparation required to compete at the NFL level. For now, his immediate calendar will center on Raiders activities and the challenge of turning an undrafted signing into a professional milestone.
