packers11
07-19-2007, 10:33 AM
With training camps approaching, Scouts Inc. ranks the NFL teams 1-32 at nine positions. Today's position: Special teams.
1. Chicago Bears
The Bears have Pro Bowlers in place-kicker Robbie Gould, core player Brendon Ayanbadejo and explosive returner Devin Hester. Special-teams coordinator Dave Toub does an excellent job of letting his talented players play to their strengths and not overcomplicating the schemes. The coverage units are solid and keep opponents pinned deep. They will continue to provide the offense with exceptional field position.
2. Buffalo Bills
Coordinator Bobby April has done a superb job the past three years. His units have finished among the league's elite due to contributions from Pro Bowl punter Brian Moorman, and solid returners Terrence McGee and Roscoe Parrish. The Bills have many talented linebackers and secondary players who make for excellent special-teams contributors. Buffalo's special-teams units handle the difficult weather conditions at home exceptionally well and perform even better in warmer climates.
3. New York Jets
Dangerous kickoff returner Justin Miller capped a fantastic 2006 season with a trip to the Pro Bowl. Coordinator Mike Westhoff has a different kickoff scheme every week, which keeps his coverage unit unpredictable and hard to block. Ben Graham and Mike Nugent were solid in 2006 with their punting and place-kicking. The Jets have a solid group of versatile core players in Brad Smith (the converted quarterback), linebacker Brad Kassell and safety Rashad Washington. The Jets' special teams will be very productive again this upcoming season.
4. Tennessee Titans
Tennessee's special teams are known for their fakes and different formations each week. Opposing coordinators have to be alert on every special-teams snap. The absence of Pacman Jones will hurt the return game. Although he's had issues off the field, Jones' special-teams contribution to the Titans was significant. The punt unit will motion the gunners to give them a free release and a better chance to cover Craig Hentrich's punts. Overall, the Tennessee special teams have been consistent for a number of years.
5. Cleveland Browns
The Browns are coming off another exceptional year of special-teams play. Josh Cribbs is an explosive kickoff returner, and Phil Dawson is an outstanding place-kicker who kicks in some of the toughest conditions. He has an arsenal of kickoffs and it is very hard to predict where the ball is going. David Zastudil had his best season in 2006. With the departure of Dennis Northcutt to Jacksonville, the Browns will have a punt return competition in training camp. Schemes will be different in Cleveland due to the coaching change, but the talent on special teams has improved.
6. Detroit Lions
Longtime special-teams coach Chuck Priefer retired after the 2006 season and his assistant, Stan Kwan, has been handed the job. The schemes that have been productive throughout the years will likely remain the same to allow for continuity. Veteran place-kicker Jason Hanson has remained consistent and productive. Eddie Drummond is an explosive returner who has breakaway speed and vision. The core players play with passion and reckless abandon on the coverage units. The Lions' special teams should continue to complete at a high level against all their opponents.
7. San Diego Chargers
San Diego was the only team besides Chicago to send three special-teams players to the Pro Bowl: place-kicker Nate Kaeding, long snapper David Binn and core player Kassim Osgood. Osgood was all over the field in 2006 and his only responsibility was to make tackles. Punter Mike Scifres boasts a powerful leg and exceptional hang time. Michael Turner is a downhill, bruising kickoff returner who is a vertical runner. The Chargers have offensive players who contribute to special teams almost as much as the defensive players, which speaks volumes about their overall versatility.
8. Seattle Seahawks
Josh Brown is an elite kicker in the NFL. Second-year punter Ryan Plackemeier had a good rookie season in 2006. New special-teams coach Bruce DeHaven will now implement his system in Seattle. Returner Nate Burleson is better at punt returns than kickoff returns. The linebacker position supplies the better special-teams core players, including guys like Kevin Bentley, Niko Koutouvides and Marquis Cooper. The offseason signing of free-agent safety Brian Russell will add value to all the special-teams phases. Russell is an intelligent player who is able to make adjustments on the fly and plays with a relentless attitude. DeHaven has inherited a solid unit which should have continued success.
9. New Orleans Saints
The Saints have a solid group of special-teams core players. Newly acquired Kevin Kaesviharn is an aggressive special-teamer. Safety Roman Harper also has proved to be a commodity on coverage units. There are starters who contribute, which makes this unit even more dangerous. Speaking of dangerous, Reggie Bush is still returning punts and will be used when needed as a kickoff returner. Newly acquired kicker Olindo Mare will provide consistency and a strong leg for the dome team. Veteran punter Chris Hanson will compete with second-year player Steve Weatherford for the punting duties. Overall, the Saints' special teams improved in 2006 under coach John Bonamego. The signing of Mare should improve the Saints statistically.
10. Cincinnati Bengals
Pro Bowl-caliber place-kicker Shayne Graham and punter Kyle Larson are elite specialists in the NFL. The core strength of the special-teams unit comes from the linebacker position, led by Andre Frazier. The secondary also provides contributions from Ethan Kilmer and Herana-Daze Jones. Wide receiver Tab Perry can return kickoffs as well as cover them. Overall, the special teams underachieved in 2006, but expectations are high again.
11. New England Patriots
New England is solid in every department, and special teams is no different. Larry Izzo has been a special-teams standout in New England for a long time. Second-year kicker Stephen Gostkowski had an outstanding rookie year and will have a chance to build on his consistency, earning the trust of head coach Bill Belichick with his performance this season. Punter Josh Miller was placed on injured reserve late in the 2006 season, but is expected to be healthy and continue his production in 2007. The Patriots signed wide receiver Wes Welker from Miami to handle the return duties. Laurence Maroney will be getting the majority of the running back snaps on offense, so his contributions as a kickoff returner will be minimal. Overall, special-teams coach Brad Seely does an excellent job of getting production from veterans and newcomers.
12. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have improved on special teams with coach Frank Gansz Jr. starting his second year in Baltimore. With Gansz at the helm, they no longer stand around on field goal rush and there is an actual scheme to the kickoff returns. The specialists -- place-kicker Matt Stover, punter Sam Koch and returner B.J. Sams -- are still very effective. The core unit is made up of young players like corner Ronnie Prude and safety Gerome Sapp. Ed Reed is still the best punt blocker in the NFL. The Ravens will get more contributions from offensive players than most teams due to the lack of contribution from the veteran defensive players. The Ravens will keep improving on special teams, which will benefit them even more in the playoffs.
13. Washington Redskins
Kicker Shaun Suisham joined the Redskins late in the 2006 season and impressed the coaching staff, making him the front-runner for the starting job. Punter Derrick Frost has a strong leg. Although he is still considered young for the position, he improved in his third year. The punt coverage didn't help Frost enough and improvement is needed in this phase. Last season, running back Rock Cartwright enjoyed a breakout year, gaining 1,541 yards on kickoff returns and recording 25 tackles in coverage. Antwaan Randle El has big-play potential as the punt returner and averaged 8.8 yards on 39 punts. Core linebacker Khary Campbell led Washington with 37 tackles on special teams. Overall, this unit is young and should keep improving in all phases.
14. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville has upgraded its special teams in the offseason by signing free-agent punt return specialist Dennis Northcutt. Northcutt consistently has been one of the best punt returners in the NFL with his ability to catch any punt, along with his vision and quickness to gain positive yards. Kicker Josh Scobee specializes in touchbacks on kickoffs and has improved his accuracy on field goals. Scobee was 14-of-18 from 40 to 49 yards. Young punters Adam Podlesh and Tony Yelk will battle for the starting job in training camp. New special-teams coach Joe DeCamillis comes from Atlanta where he had success.
15. Denver Broncos
The Broncos start fresh in 2007 with special-teams coach Scott O'Brien. The former Carolina coach will make Denver a well-disciplined and dangerous unit. The loss of returner Darrent Williams is a significant one. The Broncos will have to find a punt returner, which is never an easy task. This team is very athletic and has depth at the core positions. Place-kicker Jason Elam still has the leg strength and accuracy to be effective. Punter and kickoff specialist Paul Ernster packs a powerful punt and is adequate in kickoff duties. Overall, the Broncos' special teams should improve this season and help the team advance deep in the playoffs.
16. Kansas City Chiefs
The big question is who will be the returner since Pro Bowler Dante Hall has been traded to the St. Louis Rams. Special-teams coach Mike Priefer did a fantastic job in 2006, his first year in Kansas City, and needs to find a replacement for Hall. Punter Dustin Colquitt's net average (39.3) in 2006 is a big improvement from his previous season. Justin Medlock was drafted in the fifth round to be the starting kicker. Safety Bernard Pollard blocked two punts and has a relentless attitude on special teams. Whoever becomes the starting punt or kickoff returner will have big shoes to fill.
17. Miami Dolphins
Plenty of changes took place in Miami during the offseason. Kicker Olindo Mare is in New Orleans and was replaced by Jay Feely from the New York Giants. Donnie Jones is no longer in Miami, so there will be a competition between two young punters, Ryan Flinn and rookie Brandon Fields, for the starting job. Punt and kickoff returner Wes Welker is in New England. Rookie Ted Ginn will be asked to take over as the return specialist. Ginn is explosive and has the vision and speed to be a home run threat. The secondary will provide most of the core special-teams players with corner Mike Lehan and free-agent signee Cameron Worrell. Special-teams coach Keith Armstrong has been a mainstay in Miami in recent years despite all the coaching changes. His units have performed at a consistently high level throughout his tenure.
18. San Francisco 49ers
Punter Andy Lee has improved each season he's been in San Francisco. He has a strong leg and is improving his consistency. Joe Nedney is a good overall kicker with a strong leg and good accuracy. Maurice Hicks emerged as a reliable kickoff returner by averaging 25.1 yards per return in 2006. Rookie Brandon Williams returned punts last year and should continue to improve this year. Big linebacker Roderick Green and Jeff Ulbrich, who will probably see more action on special teams this season, are significant core contributors. San Francisco had a productive return unit, but needs to play with more consistency in the coverage phases. The 49ers will continue to be in the middle of the pack on special teams if the coverage concerns are not addressed.
19. Dallas Cowboys
There are a lot of new faces coaching the special teams in the NFL this season. While Bruce Read is new to the Cowboys, he has coached special teams with the San Diego Chargers and New York Giants in the past. Miles Austin has developed into a productive kickoff returner, averaging 26.0 yards per return in only nine games. The punt return duties went to corner Terence Newman in 2006. Veteran kicker Martin Gramatica will compete with rookie Nick Folk for the starting job. Veteran punter Mat McBriar is a 2006 Pro Bowler. Linebacker Kevin Burnett, corner Nathan Jones and safety Keith Davis are a few of the core special-teams contributors. It will also be up to Read to develop a solid holder for field goals. The majority of the NFL teams use the starting punter since he's not busy taking snaps from the starting offensive center.
20. Houston Texans
Jerome Mathis was a Pro Bowl kickoff returner as a rookie in 2005, but injuries sidelined him the majority of the 2006 season. Mathis was missed and the return game wasn't as explosive with Dexter Wynn filling in. Mathis should be back to his old self, providing the spark and field position needed for Houston's offense. Kicker Kris Brown and punter Chad Stanley are a stable pair of specialists. One of the best special-teams core players on the team is wide receiver Kevin Walter, who can make tackles in coverage and block on returns. However, his role on offense will determine how much he can contribute to special teams. If everyone is healthy, the Texans can return to the successful special-teams unit they had in 2005.
21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay has one of the best kickoff coverage units in the NFL. It's bolstered by the speed of corner Torrie Cox, safety Kalvin Pearson and linebacker Ryan Nece. Kicker Matt Bryant and punter Josh Bidwell have plenty of support in the coverage phases, thanks to the overall speed of the team. What the Bucs do lack is an explosive returner to provide consistent field position for the offense. Michael Pittman and Ike Hilliard are adequate returners, but aren't considered threats. In order for the Tampa Bay special teams to improve, it must improve in the punt and kickoff return phases. Free-agent addition B.J. Askew will help on all the phases, just as he did for the Jets in 2006.
22. Atlanta Falcons
New special-teams coordinator Jerry Rosburg will install the same principles that made his units in Cleveland among the best in the NFL. Allen Rossum proved to be a dangerous punt returner in 2006 and will most likely hold the same position this season. Rossum is not a true north-and-south runner, which may leave him out of the kickoff return mix if there is a better returner on the roster. Core players such as Lewis Sanders, Marcus Wilkins and Ovie Mughelli will make a significant impact in the new system. The Falcons are still missing a reliable place-kicker. The offseason signing of Billy Cundiff will only be a short-term fix. The specialists are subpar, but look for the special teams in Atlanta to improve under Rosburg.
23. Carolina Panthers
Carolina recently signed punter Jason Baker to a contract extension. Baker and veteran kicker John Kasay bring a high level of consistency to Carolina. Kasay enjoyed an impressive 2006 season, going 24-of-27 in field goals. The best punt returner on the team is Steve Smith. His returning duties are limited due to his role on offense, and Smith will only be used in needed situations. Corner Chris Gamble fielded most of the punts in 2006 and didn't look comfortable doing it. DeAngelo Williams returned kickoffs in 2006 and did reasonably well. The Panthers are missing an explosive return specialist designated for special teams.
24. New York Giants
Longtime special-teams coach Mike Sweatman retired after the 2006 season and assistant Tom Quinn will take over in New York. Newly acquired kicker Lawrence Tynes is expected to be the starter. Jeff Feagles will begin his 20th year in the NFL as one of the most consistent punters in history. Chad Morton is an average return specialist. Morton had both kickoff and punt return responsibilities last season. David Tyree is the best special-teams core player on the Giants and one of the best in the NFL. Tyree's coverage abilities and contributions on all phases sent him to the Pro Bowl after the 2005 season. The Giants have average returners, which is enough to keep them as a lower-tier special-teams unit.
25. St. Louis Rams
St. Louis hasn't been known for its special-teams play over the years and head coach Scott Linehan recognizes the need for improvement. Pro Bowl returner Dante Hall will be the new face on special teams for the Rams and will bring instant credibility. Hall's offseason acquisition will change the way opponents devise their game plans against the Rams. Kicker Jeff Wilkins was 3-for-3 from 50-plus yards on field goals. He has the ability to kick off deep and register touchbacks. The coverage units in St. Louis have been horrible over the years and aren't known for developing exceptional core players. Veteran special-teams coach Al Roberts, who has coached at the high school level since 2002, will have to improve the field-position battle with the coverage phases.
26. Arizona Cardinals
New coach Kevin Spencer will bring his special-teams schemes to Arizona this season. He also brings with him a core special-teams player from his previous unit in Pittsburgh, Sean Morey. Morey will play on all the phases and also has value as a backup returner. Pro bowl-caliber kicker Neil Rackers and veteran punter Scott Player will provide consistency and production. J.J. Arrington proved to be a productive and potentially explosive kickoff returner in 2006. Developing more special-teams core players and an overall higher level of play will be key for Spencer.
27. Oakland Raiders
Place-kicker Sebastian Janikowski still has power and effectiveness if the timing is right. Three-time Pro Bowl punter Shane Lechler can outkick his coverage and often does with his powerful leg. That proved to be a weakness for the punt coverage unit in 2006, which gave up many big returns. Make no mistake, the Raiders have talent on special teams. Explosive returner Chris Carr can go the distance on punt and kickoff returns. Safeties Jarrod Cooper and Stuart Schweigert are hard to block on coverage units and make plenty of tackles. The players respect new special-teams coach Brian Schneider and should have success in his system.
28. Minnesota Vikings
Kicker Ryan Longwell and punter Chris Kluwe are a solid duo. Longwell has range and accuracy. Kluwe has a powerful leg and a good punt average, but the coverage with the punt team is lacking. With the departure of Bethel Johnson to Philadelphia, the Vikings will be looking for a kickoff returner. Running back Mewelde Moore has the punt return duties and may also add kickoff returns to his résumé. Special-teams coach Paul Ferraro will have to develop a consistent returner in both return phases. There isn't a core player who creates mismatches, with the exception of Vinny Ciurciu. The Minnesota special-teams coverage phases have to tackle two explosive returners in the NFC North, Devin Hester and Eddie Drummond.
29. Indianapolis Colts
Future Hall of Fame kicker Adam Vinatieri has continued to perform at an elite level, winning another Super Bowl ring with the Colts in 2006. Hunter Smith will continue with the punting duties. The punt coverage team is below average and the protection is inconsistent at times. The Colts have a lot of young linebackers on the team and nobody is currently considered a productive special-teams core player, with the exception of Rob Morris. There is also plenty of youth in the secondary that may contribute on special teams. There isn't an exceptional returner on the team. There are a few guys who can catch a punt or a kickoff and gain a few yards, but the offense must still drive nearly the length of the field.
30. Philadelphia Eagles
Former special-teams coach John Harbaugh moves over to the defensive side of the ball, while assistant Rory Segrest will run the same system in Philadelphia. Kicker David Akers and punter Dirk Johnson will continue to provide consistency at a high level for the Eagles. There are a number of returners on the team, but Jeremy Bloom may be the experiment the Eagles are hoping pays off. He has exceptional vision and a good burst, but is unproven so far in regular-season games. While Bloom is returning punts, Bethel Johnson will compete for the kickoff return duties. Linebacker Omar Gaither proved to be a solid core player. His role may change due to his emergence as a starter toward the end of the 2006 season. The linebacker position is deep with young talent. Players like Torrance Daniels and Matt McCoy should contribute on special teams. Despite the coaching change, the special-teams standard in Philadelphia is set high. After a disappointing statistical season in 2006, look for the Eagles to move back to the top of the league.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers
Place-kicker Jeff Reed does an outstanding job considering the difficult field conditions in Pittsburgh. Veteran punter Chris Gardocki was released, creating a competition in training camp between Mike Barr and rookie Daniel Sepulveda for the job. Willie Reid should be healthy this season and provide some explosive punt returns. Najeh Davenport does an adequate job with the kickoff returns, despite being a power runner. The well is deep with special-teams core players. Clint Kriewaldt, James Harrison and Brett Keisel are some of the best special-teams players in the NFL. New coach Bob Ligashesky inherits a solid unit that should dramatically improve this season.
32. Green Bay Packers
After a dismal statistical performance in 2006, the Packers have a long way to go on special teams. The process will begin in training camp with competition for the starting specialists. Rookie kicker Mason Crosby will compete with Dave Rayner, and punters David Lonie and Jon Ryan will slug it out for a starting job. The four specialists mentioned have less than eight years of NFL experience combined. The only potential difference-making core player is linebacker Brady Poppinga, but others may emerge. The youth of the kicking specialists is scary. With the weather conditions in Green Bay, that could be a recipe for disaster.
1. Chicago Bears
The Bears have Pro Bowlers in place-kicker Robbie Gould, core player Brendon Ayanbadejo and explosive returner Devin Hester. Special-teams coordinator Dave Toub does an excellent job of letting his talented players play to their strengths and not overcomplicating the schemes. The coverage units are solid and keep opponents pinned deep. They will continue to provide the offense with exceptional field position.
2. Buffalo Bills
Coordinator Bobby April has done a superb job the past three years. His units have finished among the league's elite due to contributions from Pro Bowl punter Brian Moorman, and solid returners Terrence McGee and Roscoe Parrish. The Bills have many talented linebackers and secondary players who make for excellent special-teams contributors. Buffalo's special-teams units handle the difficult weather conditions at home exceptionally well and perform even better in warmer climates.
3. New York Jets
Dangerous kickoff returner Justin Miller capped a fantastic 2006 season with a trip to the Pro Bowl. Coordinator Mike Westhoff has a different kickoff scheme every week, which keeps his coverage unit unpredictable and hard to block. Ben Graham and Mike Nugent were solid in 2006 with their punting and place-kicking. The Jets have a solid group of versatile core players in Brad Smith (the converted quarterback), linebacker Brad Kassell and safety Rashad Washington. The Jets' special teams will be very productive again this upcoming season.
4. Tennessee Titans
Tennessee's special teams are known for their fakes and different formations each week. Opposing coordinators have to be alert on every special-teams snap. The absence of Pacman Jones will hurt the return game. Although he's had issues off the field, Jones' special-teams contribution to the Titans was significant. The punt unit will motion the gunners to give them a free release and a better chance to cover Craig Hentrich's punts. Overall, the Tennessee special teams have been consistent for a number of years.
5. Cleveland Browns
The Browns are coming off another exceptional year of special-teams play. Josh Cribbs is an explosive kickoff returner, and Phil Dawson is an outstanding place-kicker who kicks in some of the toughest conditions. He has an arsenal of kickoffs and it is very hard to predict where the ball is going. David Zastudil had his best season in 2006. With the departure of Dennis Northcutt to Jacksonville, the Browns will have a punt return competition in training camp. Schemes will be different in Cleveland due to the coaching change, but the talent on special teams has improved.
6. Detroit Lions
Longtime special-teams coach Chuck Priefer retired after the 2006 season and his assistant, Stan Kwan, has been handed the job. The schemes that have been productive throughout the years will likely remain the same to allow for continuity. Veteran place-kicker Jason Hanson has remained consistent and productive. Eddie Drummond is an explosive returner who has breakaway speed and vision. The core players play with passion and reckless abandon on the coverage units. The Lions' special teams should continue to complete at a high level against all their opponents.
7. San Diego Chargers
San Diego was the only team besides Chicago to send three special-teams players to the Pro Bowl: place-kicker Nate Kaeding, long snapper David Binn and core player Kassim Osgood. Osgood was all over the field in 2006 and his only responsibility was to make tackles. Punter Mike Scifres boasts a powerful leg and exceptional hang time. Michael Turner is a downhill, bruising kickoff returner who is a vertical runner. The Chargers have offensive players who contribute to special teams almost as much as the defensive players, which speaks volumes about their overall versatility.
8. Seattle Seahawks
Josh Brown is an elite kicker in the NFL. Second-year punter Ryan Plackemeier had a good rookie season in 2006. New special-teams coach Bruce DeHaven will now implement his system in Seattle. Returner Nate Burleson is better at punt returns than kickoff returns. The linebacker position supplies the better special-teams core players, including guys like Kevin Bentley, Niko Koutouvides and Marquis Cooper. The offseason signing of free-agent safety Brian Russell will add value to all the special-teams phases. Russell is an intelligent player who is able to make adjustments on the fly and plays with a relentless attitude. DeHaven has inherited a solid unit which should have continued success.
9. New Orleans Saints
The Saints have a solid group of special-teams core players. Newly acquired Kevin Kaesviharn is an aggressive special-teamer. Safety Roman Harper also has proved to be a commodity on coverage units. There are starters who contribute, which makes this unit even more dangerous. Speaking of dangerous, Reggie Bush is still returning punts and will be used when needed as a kickoff returner. Newly acquired kicker Olindo Mare will provide consistency and a strong leg for the dome team. Veteran punter Chris Hanson will compete with second-year player Steve Weatherford for the punting duties. Overall, the Saints' special teams improved in 2006 under coach John Bonamego. The signing of Mare should improve the Saints statistically.
10. Cincinnati Bengals
Pro Bowl-caliber place-kicker Shayne Graham and punter Kyle Larson are elite specialists in the NFL. The core strength of the special-teams unit comes from the linebacker position, led by Andre Frazier. The secondary also provides contributions from Ethan Kilmer and Herana-Daze Jones. Wide receiver Tab Perry can return kickoffs as well as cover them. Overall, the special teams underachieved in 2006, but expectations are high again.
11. New England Patriots
New England is solid in every department, and special teams is no different. Larry Izzo has been a special-teams standout in New England for a long time. Second-year kicker Stephen Gostkowski had an outstanding rookie year and will have a chance to build on his consistency, earning the trust of head coach Bill Belichick with his performance this season. Punter Josh Miller was placed on injured reserve late in the 2006 season, but is expected to be healthy and continue his production in 2007. The Patriots signed wide receiver Wes Welker from Miami to handle the return duties. Laurence Maroney will be getting the majority of the running back snaps on offense, so his contributions as a kickoff returner will be minimal. Overall, special-teams coach Brad Seely does an excellent job of getting production from veterans and newcomers.
12. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have improved on special teams with coach Frank Gansz Jr. starting his second year in Baltimore. With Gansz at the helm, they no longer stand around on field goal rush and there is an actual scheme to the kickoff returns. The specialists -- place-kicker Matt Stover, punter Sam Koch and returner B.J. Sams -- are still very effective. The core unit is made up of young players like corner Ronnie Prude and safety Gerome Sapp. Ed Reed is still the best punt blocker in the NFL. The Ravens will get more contributions from offensive players than most teams due to the lack of contribution from the veteran defensive players. The Ravens will keep improving on special teams, which will benefit them even more in the playoffs.
13. Washington Redskins
Kicker Shaun Suisham joined the Redskins late in the 2006 season and impressed the coaching staff, making him the front-runner for the starting job. Punter Derrick Frost has a strong leg. Although he is still considered young for the position, he improved in his third year. The punt coverage didn't help Frost enough and improvement is needed in this phase. Last season, running back Rock Cartwright enjoyed a breakout year, gaining 1,541 yards on kickoff returns and recording 25 tackles in coverage. Antwaan Randle El has big-play potential as the punt returner and averaged 8.8 yards on 39 punts. Core linebacker Khary Campbell led Washington with 37 tackles on special teams. Overall, this unit is young and should keep improving in all phases.
14. Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville has upgraded its special teams in the offseason by signing free-agent punt return specialist Dennis Northcutt. Northcutt consistently has been one of the best punt returners in the NFL with his ability to catch any punt, along with his vision and quickness to gain positive yards. Kicker Josh Scobee specializes in touchbacks on kickoffs and has improved his accuracy on field goals. Scobee was 14-of-18 from 40 to 49 yards. Young punters Adam Podlesh and Tony Yelk will battle for the starting job in training camp. New special-teams coach Joe DeCamillis comes from Atlanta where he had success.
15. Denver Broncos
The Broncos start fresh in 2007 with special-teams coach Scott O'Brien. The former Carolina coach will make Denver a well-disciplined and dangerous unit. The loss of returner Darrent Williams is a significant one. The Broncos will have to find a punt returner, which is never an easy task. This team is very athletic and has depth at the core positions. Place-kicker Jason Elam still has the leg strength and accuracy to be effective. Punter and kickoff specialist Paul Ernster packs a powerful punt and is adequate in kickoff duties. Overall, the Broncos' special teams should improve this season and help the team advance deep in the playoffs.
16. Kansas City Chiefs
The big question is who will be the returner since Pro Bowler Dante Hall has been traded to the St. Louis Rams. Special-teams coach Mike Priefer did a fantastic job in 2006, his first year in Kansas City, and needs to find a replacement for Hall. Punter Dustin Colquitt's net average (39.3) in 2006 is a big improvement from his previous season. Justin Medlock was drafted in the fifth round to be the starting kicker. Safety Bernard Pollard blocked two punts and has a relentless attitude on special teams. Whoever becomes the starting punt or kickoff returner will have big shoes to fill.
17. Miami Dolphins
Plenty of changes took place in Miami during the offseason. Kicker Olindo Mare is in New Orleans and was replaced by Jay Feely from the New York Giants. Donnie Jones is no longer in Miami, so there will be a competition between two young punters, Ryan Flinn and rookie Brandon Fields, for the starting job. Punt and kickoff returner Wes Welker is in New England. Rookie Ted Ginn will be asked to take over as the return specialist. Ginn is explosive and has the vision and speed to be a home run threat. The secondary will provide most of the core special-teams players with corner Mike Lehan and free-agent signee Cameron Worrell. Special-teams coach Keith Armstrong has been a mainstay in Miami in recent years despite all the coaching changes. His units have performed at a consistently high level throughout his tenure.
18. San Francisco 49ers
Punter Andy Lee has improved each season he's been in San Francisco. He has a strong leg and is improving his consistency. Joe Nedney is a good overall kicker with a strong leg and good accuracy. Maurice Hicks emerged as a reliable kickoff returner by averaging 25.1 yards per return in 2006. Rookie Brandon Williams returned punts last year and should continue to improve this year. Big linebacker Roderick Green and Jeff Ulbrich, who will probably see more action on special teams this season, are significant core contributors. San Francisco had a productive return unit, but needs to play with more consistency in the coverage phases. The 49ers will continue to be in the middle of the pack on special teams if the coverage concerns are not addressed.
19. Dallas Cowboys
There are a lot of new faces coaching the special teams in the NFL this season. While Bruce Read is new to the Cowboys, he has coached special teams with the San Diego Chargers and New York Giants in the past. Miles Austin has developed into a productive kickoff returner, averaging 26.0 yards per return in only nine games. The punt return duties went to corner Terence Newman in 2006. Veteran kicker Martin Gramatica will compete with rookie Nick Folk for the starting job. Veteran punter Mat McBriar is a 2006 Pro Bowler. Linebacker Kevin Burnett, corner Nathan Jones and safety Keith Davis are a few of the core special-teams contributors. It will also be up to Read to develop a solid holder for field goals. The majority of the NFL teams use the starting punter since he's not busy taking snaps from the starting offensive center.
20. Houston Texans
Jerome Mathis was a Pro Bowl kickoff returner as a rookie in 2005, but injuries sidelined him the majority of the 2006 season. Mathis was missed and the return game wasn't as explosive with Dexter Wynn filling in. Mathis should be back to his old self, providing the spark and field position needed for Houston's offense. Kicker Kris Brown and punter Chad Stanley are a stable pair of specialists. One of the best special-teams core players on the team is wide receiver Kevin Walter, who can make tackles in coverage and block on returns. However, his role on offense will determine how much he can contribute to special teams. If everyone is healthy, the Texans can return to the successful special-teams unit they had in 2005.
21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tampa Bay has one of the best kickoff coverage units in the NFL. It's bolstered by the speed of corner Torrie Cox, safety Kalvin Pearson and linebacker Ryan Nece. Kicker Matt Bryant and punter Josh Bidwell have plenty of support in the coverage phases, thanks to the overall speed of the team. What the Bucs do lack is an explosive returner to provide consistent field position for the offense. Michael Pittman and Ike Hilliard are adequate returners, but aren't considered threats. In order for the Tampa Bay special teams to improve, it must improve in the punt and kickoff return phases. Free-agent addition B.J. Askew will help on all the phases, just as he did for the Jets in 2006.
22. Atlanta Falcons
New special-teams coordinator Jerry Rosburg will install the same principles that made his units in Cleveland among the best in the NFL. Allen Rossum proved to be a dangerous punt returner in 2006 and will most likely hold the same position this season. Rossum is not a true north-and-south runner, which may leave him out of the kickoff return mix if there is a better returner on the roster. Core players such as Lewis Sanders, Marcus Wilkins and Ovie Mughelli will make a significant impact in the new system. The Falcons are still missing a reliable place-kicker. The offseason signing of Billy Cundiff will only be a short-term fix. The specialists are subpar, but look for the special teams in Atlanta to improve under Rosburg.
23. Carolina Panthers
Carolina recently signed punter Jason Baker to a contract extension. Baker and veteran kicker John Kasay bring a high level of consistency to Carolina. Kasay enjoyed an impressive 2006 season, going 24-of-27 in field goals. The best punt returner on the team is Steve Smith. His returning duties are limited due to his role on offense, and Smith will only be used in needed situations. Corner Chris Gamble fielded most of the punts in 2006 and didn't look comfortable doing it. DeAngelo Williams returned kickoffs in 2006 and did reasonably well. The Panthers are missing an explosive return specialist designated for special teams.
24. New York Giants
Longtime special-teams coach Mike Sweatman retired after the 2006 season and assistant Tom Quinn will take over in New York. Newly acquired kicker Lawrence Tynes is expected to be the starter. Jeff Feagles will begin his 20th year in the NFL as one of the most consistent punters in history. Chad Morton is an average return specialist. Morton had both kickoff and punt return responsibilities last season. David Tyree is the best special-teams core player on the Giants and one of the best in the NFL. Tyree's coverage abilities and contributions on all phases sent him to the Pro Bowl after the 2005 season. The Giants have average returners, which is enough to keep them as a lower-tier special-teams unit.
25. St. Louis Rams
St. Louis hasn't been known for its special-teams play over the years and head coach Scott Linehan recognizes the need for improvement. Pro Bowl returner Dante Hall will be the new face on special teams for the Rams and will bring instant credibility. Hall's offseason acquisition will change the way opponents devise their game plans against the Rams. Kicker Jeff Wilkins was 3-for-3 from 50-plus yards on field goals. He has the ability to kick off deep and register touchbacks. The coverage units in St. Louis have been horrible over the years and aren't known for developing exceptional core players. Veteran special-teams coach Al Roberts, who has coached at the high school level since 2002, will have to improve the field-position battle with the coverage phases.
26. Arizona Cardinals
New coach Kevin Spencer will bring his special-teams schemes to Arizona this season. He also brings with him a core special-teams player from his previous unit in Pittsburgh, Sean Morey. Morey will play on all the phases and also has value as a backup returner. Pro bowl-caliber kicker Neil Rackers and veteran punter Scott Player will provide consistency and production. J.J. Arrington proved to be a productive and potentially explosive kickoff returner in 2006. Developing more special-teams core players and an overall higher level of play will be key for Spencer.
27. Oakland Raiders
Place-kicker Sebastian Janikowski still has power and effectiveness if the timing is right. Three-time Pro Bowl punter Shane Lechler can outkick his coverage and often does with his powerful leg. That proved to be a weakness for the punt coverage unit in 2006, which gave up many big returns. Make no mistake, the Raiders have talent on special teams. Explosive returner Chris Carr can go the distance on punt and kickoff returns. Safeties Jarrod Cooper and Stuart Schweigert are hard to block on coverage units and make plenty of tackles. The players respect new special-teams coach Brian Schneider and should have success in his system.
28. Minnesota Vikings
Kicker Ryan Longwell and punter Chris Kluwe are a solid duo. Longwell has range and accuracy. Kluwe has a powerful leg and a good punt average, but the coverage with the punt team is lacking. With the departure of Bethel Johnson to Philadelphia, the Vikings will be looking for a kickoff returner. Running back Mewelde Moore has the punt return duties and may also add kickoff returns to his résumé. Special-teams coach Paul Ferraro will have to develop a consistent returner in both return phases. There isn't a core player who creates mismatches, with the exception of Vinny Ciurciu. The Minnesota special-teams coverage phases have to tackle two explosive returners in the NFC North, Devin Hester and Eddie Drummond.
29. Indianapolis Colts
Future Hall of Fame kicker Adam Vinatieri has continued to perform at an elite level, winning another Super Bowl ring with the Colts in 2006. Hunter Smith will continue with the punting duties. The punt coverage team is below average and the protection is inconsistent at times. The Colts have a lot of young linebackers on the team and nobody is currently considered a productive special-teams core player, with the exception of Rob Morris. There is also plenty of youth in the secondary that may contribute on special teams. There isn't an exceptional returner on the team. There are a few guys who can catch a punt or a kickoff and gain a few yards, but the offense must still drive nearly the length of the field.
30. Philadelphia Eagles
Former special-teams coach John Harbaugh moves over to the defensive side of the ball, while assistant Rory Segrest will run the same system in Philadelphia. Kicker David Akers and punter Dirk Johnson will continue to provide consistency at a high level for the Eagles. There are a number of returners on the team, but Jeremy Bloom may be the experiment the Eagles are hoping pays off. He has exceptional vision and a good burst, but is unproven so far in regular-season games. While Bloom is returning punts, Bethel Johnson will compete for the kickoff return duties. Linebacker Omar Gaither proved to be a solid core player. His role may change due to his emergence as a starter toward the end of the 2006 season. The linebacker position is deep with young talent. Players like Torrance Daniels and Matt McCoy should contribute on special teams. Despite the coaching change, the special-teams standard in Philadelphia is set high. After a disappointing statistical season in 2006, look for the Eagles to move back to the top of the league.
31. Pittsburgh Steelers
Place-kicker Jeff Reed does an outstanding job considering the difficult field conditions in Pittsburgh. Veteran punter Chris Gardocki was released, creating a competition in training camp between Mike Barr and rookie Daniel Sepulveda for the job. Willie Reid should be healthy this season and provide some explosive punt returns. Najeh Davenport does an adequate job with the kickoff returns, despite being a power runner. The well is deep with special-teams core players. Clint Kriewaldt, James Harrison and Brett Keisel are some of the best special-teams players in the NFL. New coach Bob Ligashesky inherits a solid unit that should dramatically improve this season.
32. Green Bay Packers
After a dismal statistical performance in 2006, the Packers have a long way to go on special teams. The process will begin in training camp with competition for the starting specialists. Rookie kicker Mason Crosby will compete with Dave Rayner, and punters David Lonie and Jon Ryan will slug it out for a starting job. The four specialists mentioned have less than eight years of NFL experience combined. The only potential difference-making core player is linebacker Brady Poppinga, but others may emerge. The youth of the kicking specialists is scary. With the weather conditions in Green Bay, that could be a recipe for disaster.