Beyond the Stars: Highlighting the NFL’s Most Underrated Special Teams Aces in 2025
The roar of the crowd, the bone-jarring hits, and the gravity-defying catches – these are the moments that typically dominate NFL highlight reels. But beneath the surface of gridiron glory lies a unit often overlooked, yet undeniably crucial: special teams. In 2024, the Detroit Lions showcased the importance of special teams, with several highlight plays that shifted momentum and contributed to their success. While quarterbacks and wide receivers often steal the spotlight, it’s time to shine a light on the unsung heroes who consistently deliver game-changing plays. These are the NFL’s most underrated special teams aces in 2025.
The Consistent Kicker: Cameron Dicker, Los Angeles Chargers
Cameron Dicker’s performance in 2024 was nothing short of exceptional, earning him a multi-year contract extension with the Chargers. Dicker is one of the NFL’s best kickers, and his impact is undeniable. He set a Chargers single-season record with nine makes from 50-plus yards and made 39 of 42 attempts, boasting a franchise-best 92.9% make rate. Dicker’s reliability and leg strength make him a weapon for the Chargers, consistently providing crucial points and solidifying field position.
The Dynamic Return Specialist: Derius Davis, Los Angeles Chargers
Joining Dicker in the Chargers’ special teams spotlight is Derius Davis, a dynamic return specialist who consistently sparks the team with electrifying plays. Davis, honored by the Pro Football Writers of America on their All-AFC Team, averaged 12.4 yards per punt return in 2024, ranking fourth among players with at least 10 returns. His ability to create explosive plays out of seemingly ordinary situations makes him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
The Special Teams Tackling Machine: Nick Niemann, Free Agent
Nick Niemann’s relentless pursuit and tackling prowess make him a standout on special teams. Despite missing the first four games of the 2024 season due to injury, Niemann returned with a vengeance, earning the top overall PFF special teams grade on the Chargers at 79.5. He also led the team with 10 special teams tackles, showcasing his dedication and impact on multiple units. Niemann’s impending free agency makes him a valuable asset for any team seeking to bolster their special teams coverage.
The Punting Powerhouse: Corey Bojorquez, Cleveland Browns
Corey Bojorquez has consistently proven his value as a punter, showcasing a rare blend of power and precision. Bojorquez’s consistency is remarkable. For the fourth straight year, he ranked in the top 10 for gross punt value. In 2024, Bojorquez led the NFL in gross punting value, factoring in distance, return averages, altitude, and weather conditions. His ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory with booming punts makes him a game-changer for the Browns’ defense.
The Versatile Gunner: Justin Hardee, New York Jets
Justin Hardee’s speed, agility, and fearlessness make him a standout as a gunner on punt and kickoff coverage. While stats may not fully capture his impact, Hardee consistently disrupts returners and forces fair catches, limiting opponents’ opportunities for explosive plays. His dedication to special teams and willingness to sacrifice his body make him a valuable asset for the Jets.
The Emerging Star: Chad Ryland, Arizona Cardinals
Chad Ryland of the Arizona Cardinals is a rising star in the kicking game, demonstrating remarkable clutch ability and leg strength. In 2024, Ryland delivered multiple game-winning field goals, earning him the NFC Special Teams Player of the Month award. One of the top plays of the year for the Cardinals was Ryland nailing a 58-yard field goal to send the Cardinals to overtime against the Panthers. His poise under pressure and consistent accuracy make him a key component of the Cardinals’ special teams unit.
The Veteran Presence: Matthew Slater, New England Patriots
While Matthew Slater retired after the 2023 season, his legacy as a special teams icon continues to inspire. Though he is not playing in 2025, Slater’s impact extends beyond statistics. His leadership, dedication, and mastery of special teams techniques set a standard for excellence. Slater’s influence on the Patriots’ special teams unit and the league as a whole solidifies his place as one of the greatest special teams players of all time.
The Undrafted Gem: Karene Reid, Utah (2025 Draft Prospect)
Looking ahead, Karene Reid from Utah is a linebacker prospect who could make an immediate impact on special teams. Reid possesses a combination of instincts, tenacity, and playing speed that could make him highly effective as a coverage specialist and special teams ace. His ability to contribute in multiple facets of the kicking game makes him a valuable addition to any roster.
The Sleeper Pick: Dorian Strong, Virginia Tech (2025 Draft Prospect)
Dorian Strong is a tall, physical perimeter corner with five years of starting experience (including on special teams). Strong might lack elite twitch (4.50 in the 40-yard dash), but he’s got one of the higher floors of the so-called second-tier corners.
The Return Game Sparkplug: Darius Lewis, Southeastern Louisiana (2025 Draft Prospect)
Darius Lewis was an All-American kick returner this past season for the Lions. His dynamic ability on special teams has garnered attention ahead of the NFL draft. He’s reportedly been in contact with the Saints.
These players represent just a fraction of the talented individuals who excel on special teams in the NFL. Their dedication, skill, and willingness to embrace the less glamorous aspects of the game make them invaluable assets to their respective teams. As the 2025 season unfolds, keep an eye on these underrated aces as they continue to make game-changing plays and redefine the importance of special teams in the modern NFL.