Paul RichardIntroduction
Let’s be real—special teams rarely get the spotlight in the NFL world. Most fans focus on quarterbacks, flashy receivers, or monstrous defenders. But if you’ve been watching closely, training camp is where special teams heroes start carving out roster spots, game-changing moments, and even entire careers. This year, eight players are making serious waves on special teams—and it’s time they get their shine.
Whether it’s a booming punt, a clutch tackle, or a return touchdown that shifts the tide, special teams players can make or break a season. So grab your helmet (figuratively, of course) and let’s break down the 8 special teams players standing out in NFL training this year.
Why Special Teams Matter More Than Ever
The Overlooked Game-Changer
Most fans don’t think much about special teams until something goes wrong. A missed field goal? Disaster. A blocked punt? Momentum killer. But when done right, it’s like silent electricity powering the game from the shadows.
Training Camp: The Proving Ground
NFL training camps aren’t just for starters—they’re the battleground where special teams players grind it out, vying for roster spots. Coaches don’t overlook effort on kickoffs, punts, and returns. In fact, it might be your only shot if you’re not a top-drafted player.
How We Chose These 8 Special Teams Standouts
Metrics That Matter
We used a combo of stats and scouts’ eyes. We looked at:
- Return yards
- Hang time
- Field position gained/lost
- Tackle success rate
- Kick efficiency
- Camp buzz & coaching feedback
Eye Test vs. Analytics
We also leaned into fan insights and insider reports. For more breakdowns like this, check out our Behind the Scenes and Fan Insight sections, where we dive into performance analytics, positional evaluations, and coaching adjustments.
1. Brandon Aubrey – Kicker, Dallas Cowboys
From MLS to NFL: A Wild Journey
Yes, you read that right. Aubrey was once a professional soccer player before switching to football. And now? He’s bombing field goals from 60+ yards in camp.
Accuracy, Calmness & Consistency
Mike McCarthy recently said Aubrey is showing “veteran-level calm under pressure.” He’s yet to miss a kick in full-team drills. If you’re into performance tracking, Aubrey’s data is spiking across the board.
2. Jamison Crowder – Return Specialist, Washington Commanders
Veteran Sparkplug
Crowder isn’t new, but his return ability is being revived in camp. He’s making sharp cuts, reading blocks like a book, and giving defenders fits.
Field Vision & Quick Bursts
He’s clocked impressive speed bursts and is winning reps against the younger legs. Commanders insiders say he’s likely to open the season as the starting punt returner.
3. Chris Board – Coverage Ace, New England Patriots
The Tackle Machine
Board is everywhere. Whether it’s kickoff or punt coverage, he’s either the first guy downfield or the one cleaning up. His special teams tackle rate is among the highest in the league.
Bill Belichick’s Utility Knife
Belichick loves his multi-use players, and Board is just that. He thrives in every phase and contributes as a linebacker too. Dive deeper into coaching tools like how Board is used in New England.
4. Jake Camarda – Punter, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Booting Bombs with Precision
This guy can flip the field with a single punt. Camarda is averaging over 55 yards per kick in training, and more importantly—he’s placing them inside the 10 consistently.
Hidden Yardage Advantage
It’s not sexy, but field position is everything. Camarda is giving the Bucs’ defense room to breathe and forcing offenses into tough spots.
5. Matthew Slater – Gunner, New England Patriots
The GOAT of Special Teams
You can’t have a list of special teams standouts without Matthew Slater. Year after year, he leads by example—and even now, he’s winning 1-on-1 reps in gunner drills.
Leadership That Can’t Be Measured
While his stats don’t jump off the page, his impact is seen on film. For deeper looks into Slater’s technique, check out our positional focus and analytics content.
6. Joe Giles-Harris – LB/Special Teamer, Buffalo Bills
Quietly Dominant in Camp Drills
Not a flashy name, but Joe has been all over the field. Special teams drills show him shedding blocks and making clean tackles, especially in kickoff situations.
Coverage Skills on Full Display
He’s even being used in passing drills on special teams—a testament to his versatility. Check out his rising star profile on our Player Spotlight page.
7. Devin Duvernay – Return Specialist, Baltimore Ravens
Dynamic, Versatile, and Explosive
The Ravens love Swiss Army knives—and Duvernay fits that bill. He’s been returning both punts and kicks during camp and has already broken two returns in scrimmage sessions.
Game-Changing Field Position Shifts
He’s not just fast—he’s strategic. He knows how to time his bursts, follow his blocks, and make subtle moves that leave defenders stumbling.
8. Jakeem Grant – Returner, Cleveland Browns
Comeback Player Vibes
After a season-ending injury last year, Grant is back—and looks faster than ever. His cuts are sharp, his speed is electric, and fans are hyped.
One-Cut Lightning
Grant’s quickness in the open field is something the Browns desperately need. Expect him to see heavy return duties. Check our Rookie Watch and NFL Camp Guide for more comeback stories like his.
What These Players Teach Us About NFL Special Teams
Mindset, Hustle, and Grit
None of these guys got the glitz or spotlight—they earned every rep. That underdog mindset shows up big on film and in camp stats.
Analytics Don’t Lie—They Thrive
Special teams may seem chaotic, but with the right performance monitoring tools, teams can find true difference-makers hiding in plain sight.
Internal Resources to Learn More
- USA Sports News Today
- Behind the Scenes
- Fan Insight
- Positional Focus
- NFL Training
- NFL Camp Guide
- Performance Monitoring
Conclusion
Special teams may never be the flashy highlight reel you post on social media—but they win games. These 8 special teams players standing out in NFL training prove that grit, consistency, and raw hustle still matter. Whether they’re returning kicks, pinning opponents deep, or flying downfield to make a tackle, these unsung heroes deserve your attention.
FAQs
1. Why do special teams matter in the NFL?
Special teams control field position, momentum, and often make game-changing plays—like return touchdowns or blocked kicks.
2. Who is the best current special teams player in the NFL?
Matthew Slater of the Patriots is widely regarded as the GOAT of special teams.
3. How do teams evaluate special teams talent during training camp?
Coaches use drills, analytics, and film study to assess performance in coverage, returns, and execution.
4. Can special teams play help players make the final roster?
Absolutely. Many fringe players earn a spot based solely on special teams excellence.
5. What is the most valuable role on special teams?
It depends on the team, but returners and gunners often make the biggest impact.
6. Are special teams analytics different from offensive/defensive stats?
Yes. They focus on net yardage, hang time, tackle efficiency, and starting field position.
7. Where can I learn more about rising NFL special teams stars?
Check out USA Sports News Today for insider analysis, player spotlights, and fan-driven content.