American football is a complex and dynamic sport that requires a diverse range of skills and positions. While the offense and defense often receive the most attention, special teams play a critical role in determining the outcome of a game.
Special teams are responsible for kickoffs, punts, field goals, and extra points, as well as returning kicks and punts.
Below we look at the various special teams positions in American football, their roles, and the impact they have on the game.
Kicker
The kicker is one of the most important positions on special teams. Their primary role is to kick field goals and extra points.
Kickers must have exceptional leg strength and accuracy to consistently convert these scoring opportunities.
They often spend hours practicing their technique and honing their skills to become reliable contributors to their team’s success.
Notable examples of successful kickers in the NFL include Adam Vinatieri, who holds numerous records for field goals made, and Justin Tucker, known for his incredible accuracy and long-range kicks.
Punter
The punter is responsible for kicking the ball to the opposing team after an unsuccessful offensive drive.
Their primary objective is to maximize the distance and hang time of the punt while minimizing the return yardage.
Punters often possess a strong leg and the ability to control the direction and trajectory of their kicks.
One of the most renowned punters in NFL history is Ray Guy, who revolutionized the position with his powerful and accurate punts.
Another notable punter is Shane Lechler, who holds the record for the highest career punting average.
Long Snapper
The long snapper plays a critical role in special teams by delivering the ball to the punter or holder for field goal and extra point attempts.
This position requires precision and consistency, as any mistakes in the snap can disrupt the timing of the play and potentially result in a turnover or missed kick.
One of the most respected long snappers in recent years is Patrick Mannelly, who spent his entire 16-year career with the Chicago Bears.
Mannelly was known for his accuracy and reliability, earning him the nickname “The Longevity King.”
Special Teams positions
Holder
The holder is responsible for catching the snap from the long snapper and placing the ball in the optimal position for the kicker during field goal and extra point attempts.
They must have excellent hand-eye coordination and the ability to handle pressure situations.
A notable example of a successful holder is Matt Cassel, who played quarterback in the NFL but also served as a holder for field goals and extra points during his career.
Kick Returner
The kick returner’s role is to catch kickoffs from the opposing team and attempt to advance the ball as far as possible.
They must possess exceptional speed, agility, and vision to navigate through the coverage team and find open lanes for a successful return.
Devin Hester is widely regarded as one of the greatest kick returners in NFL history.
He holds the record for the most career return touchdowns, showcasing his electrifying ability to change the momentum of a game with a single return.
Punt Returner
Similar to kick returners, punt returners are responsible for catching punts and gaining yardage for their team.
They must possess quick reflexes, agility, and the ability to make split-second decisions to evade tacklers and find open space.
Deion Sanders, a Hall of Fame cornerback, was known for his exceptional punt return skills.
His ability to elude defenders and make explosive returns made him a threat every time he touched the ball.
Gunners
Gunners are players who specialize in covering punts and kickoffs.
Their primary objective is to sprint down the field and tackle the returner as quickly as possible. Gunners must possess exceptional speed, agility, and tackling ability to succeed in this role.
Matthew Slater, a wide receiver for the New England Patriots, is widely regarded as one of the best gunners in NFL history.
He has been selected to numerous Pro Bowls for his outstanding special teams play.
Upback
The upback is a position primarily used on punt plays.
They line up a few yards behind the line of scrimmage and serve as an additional blocker for the punter.
The upback’s role is to protect the punter from potential rushers and provide an extra layer of security.
While the upback’s contributions may not always be highlighted, their presence is crucial in ensuring a successful punt and preventing blocks or disruptions.
Personal Protector
The personal protector is another position specific to punt plays.
They line up in front of the punter and are responsible for identifying potential threats and making adjustments to protect the punter.
The personal protector must possess strong football IQ and communication skills to effectively coordinate with the rest of the punt team.
One example of a successful personal protector is Steve Tasker, who played for the Buffalo Bills in the 1980s and 1990s.
Tasker was known for his intelligence and leadership on special teams, earning him seven Pro Bowl selections.
How Do Special Teams Positions Change Based on Different Special Teams Plays?
Special teams positions can vary based on the specific play being executed.
Here are some examples of how positions can change for different special teams plays in football:
Kickoffs
- Kicker: Kicks the ball to the opposing team.
- Coverage Team: Consists of players who sprint down the field to tackle the kick returner.
- Return Team: Consists of players who try to block and create running lanes for the kick returner.
Punts
- Punter: Kicks the ball to the opposing team to maximize distance, hang time, and/or directional placement.
- Long Snapper: Delivers a long snap to the punter.
- Coverage Team: Players who sprint down the field to tackle the punt returner.
- Punt Returner: Catches the punt and tries to gain yardage after the catch.
- Return Team: Consists of players who try to block and create running lanes for the punt returner.
Field Goals and Extra Points
- Kicker: Attempts to kick the ball through the uprights for either field goals or extra points.
- Holder: Holds the ball in position for the kicker to kick it.
- Long Snapper: Delivers a short snap to the holder.
- Offensive Line: Forms a blocking wall to protect the kick and prevent defenders from blocking it.
Field Goal/PAT Block
- Defensive Line: Tries to block the kick by penetrating the offensive line.
- Blockers: Can include linebackers, safeties, or cornerbacks who try to disrupt the kicking operation by leaping or blocking the kick.
Onside Kick
- Kicker: Executes a short, low kick to give the kicking team a chance to recover the ball.
- Hands Team: Consists of players with good hands and ball recovery skills, typically on the receiving team, who try to secure the onside kick.
These are just a few examples, and the positions and strategies employed in special teams can vary based on game situations, coaching strategies, and specific plays designed by the teams.
Coaches often have specialized units and specific players dedicated to special teams, as these plays require a unique skill set and strategy separate from offense and defense.
Summary
Special teams play a vital role in American football, and the various positions within this unit contribute to the overall success of a team.
From kickers and punters to returners and gunners, each position requires specific skills and attributes to excel.
Understanding the roles and responsibilities of these positions can provide valuable insights into the intricacies of the game and enhance appreciation for the contributions of special teams players.
FAQs – Special Teams Positions in American Football
1. What is the role of a kicker in American football?
The kicker’s primary role is to kick field goals and extra points.
They must have exceptional leg strength and accuracy to convert scoring opportunities.
2. Who is considered one of the greatest kickers in NFL history?
Adam Vinatieri, known for his clutch performances and numerous records, is widely regarded as one of the greatest kickers in NFL history.
3. What is the responsibility of a punter?
The punter is responsible for kicking the ball to the opposing team after an unsuccessful offensive drive.
Their objective is to maximize distance and hang time while minimizing return yardage.
4. Who revolutionized the punter position in the NFL?
Ray Guy is often credited with revolutionizing the punter position in the NFL with his powerful and accurate punts.
5. What is the role of a long snapper?
The long snapper delivers the ball to the punter or holder for field goal and extra point attempts.
They must have precision and consistency to ensure a successful play.
6. Who is one of the most respected long snappers in recent years?
Patrick Mannelly, who spent his entire career with the Chicago Bears, is highly regarded as one of the most respected long snappers in recent years.
7. What is the responsibility of a holder?
The holder catches the snap from the long snapper and places the ball in the optimal position for the kicker during field goal and extra point attempts.
8. Can players from other positions serve as holders?
Yes, players from other positions, such as quarterbacks, can also serve as holders for field goals and extra points.
9. What is the role of a kick returner?
The kick returner catches kickoffs from the opposing team and attempts to advance the ball as far as possible, utilizing their speed, agility, and vision.
10. Who is considered one of the greatest kick returners in NFL history?
Devin Hester, known for his electrifying returns and record-breaking career, is widely regarded as one of the greatest kick returners in NFL history.
11. What is the responsibility of a punt returner?
Punt returners catch punts and aim to gain yardage for their team.
They must possess quick reflexes, agility, and the ability to make split-second decisions.
12. Who is an example of a successful punt returner?
Deion Sanders, a Hall of Fame cornerback, was known for his exceptional punt return skills and ability to elude defenders.
13. What is the role of gunners in special teams?
Gunners specialize in covering punts and kickoffs, sprinting down the field to tackle the returner as quickly as possible.
14. Who is considered one of the best gunners in NFL history?
Matthew Slater, a wide receiver for the New England Patriots, is widely regarded as one of the best gunners in NFL history.
15. What is the role of an upback?
The upback is positioned a few yards behind the line of scrimmage on punt plays and serves as an additional blocker for the punter.
16. Who is an example of a successful personal protector?
Steve Tasker, who played for the Buffalo Bills, was known for his intelligence and leadership as a personal protector on punt plays.
