Numbers Don’t Lie: Unveiling the Special Teams Stats That Will Define the 2025 NFL Season
In the high-stakes world of the NFL, where games are often decided by the slimmest of margins, special teams play can be the ultimate difference-maker. A blocked punt, a booming kick return, or a clutch field goal can swing momentum and alter the course of a season. As we gear up for the 2025 season, let’s dive into the special teams stats that will separate the contenders from the pretenders. Remember Brandon Aubrey? He went from being a former soccer player to a revelation as an NFL kicker in 2023. He led all kickers in fantasy points per game (10.6) and had more than 20 points more than the next kicker. The rookie was 14-of-14 on kicks from 40-plus yards, including hitting all 10 of his attempts at 50 yards or beyond. Numbers don’t lie: special teams matter.
The Field Goal Factor: Accuracy Under Pressure
The kicking game remains a critical component of special teams, and field goal percentage is a telling statistic. In 2024, several kickers proved their worth under pressure, while others faltered. Cameron Dicker of the Los Angeles Chargers continues to be one of the most consistent kickers in football. In two seasons, he’s hit all 45 of his attempts inside of 50 yards and converted all 59 extra-point attempts in his career. Reliability is better than a big leg for many teams in the league.
Looking ahead, teams will be closely monitoring kickers’ accuracy from beyond 50 yards. The ability to consistently convert long field goals can provide a significant scoring advantage, especially in close games. Younghoe Koo of the Atlanta Falcons, known for his leg strength and accuracy, will be a key player to watch.
The Return Game Revolution: Explosiveness and Efficiency
The kickoff and punt return game is undergoing a transformation, with teams prioritizing speed and agility. The average kickoff return yardage and punt return yardage are key indicators of a team’s ability to generate explosive plays and gain valuable field position.
In 2024, Keisean Nixon of the Green Bay Packers showcased his explosiveness as a returner, averaging 28.4 yards on five kick returns and 12.0 yards on four punt returns. Laviska Shenault Jr. has emerged as a weapon in the kick return game, averaging 32.7 yards on 12 kick returns with one touchdown. 10 of his 12 returns have gone for 20-plus yards this season. These game-changing plays can energize an offense and put the opposing defense on its heels.
As teams continue to refine their return schemes, look for players with exceptional vision, elusiveness, and breakaway speed to emerge as difference-makers in 2025. DeeJay Dallas of the Arizona Cardinals has been one of the best kick returners in the NFL this season with 12 kick returns from 378 yards and a touchdown on the season.
The Coverage Conundrum: Tackling and Limiting Opportunities
While explosive returns grab headlines, solid coverage units are equally vital to special teams success. The average opponent kickoff return yardage and average opponent punt return yardage reveal how well a team is preventing big plays and limiting the opposition’s field position.
The New England Patriots, under the guidance of special teams guru Cam Achord, consistently rank among the league’s best in coverage. Their disciplined tackling and strategic positioning minimize return opportunities and force opponents to start drives deep in their own territory.
In 2025, teams will emphasize tackling efficiency and minimizing penalties on coverage units. A well-coached coverage team can neutralize even the most dangerous returners and provide a significant advantage in field position.
Coaching Matters: The Masterminds Behind the Mayhem
The impact of coaching on special teams performance cannot be overstated. A dedicated and innovative special teams coordinator can devise schemes that maximize a team’s strengths and exploit opponents’ weaknesses.
Darren Rizzi joined the Denver Broncos as Special Teams Coordinator/Assistant Head Coach. Payton previously announced Rizzi’s hiring ahead of the 2025 NFL Combine. The 49ers hired former Jets special teams coordinator Brant Boyer to take over a unit that has struggled for years under head coach Kyle Shanahan, who fired former special teams coordinator Brian Schneider following a season in which mistakes in the kicking game contributed to a 6-11 record. These hires reflect the growing recognition of special teams as a critical component of overall team success.
In 2025, look for teams with innovative special teams coaches to gain an edge through creative schemes, meticulous preparation, and the ability to adapt to evolving game situations.
The Hidden Yardage Battle: Net Punting and Pinpointing Accuracy
Punting, often overlooked, plays a crucial role in the field position battle. Net punting average, which factors in return yardage, provides a more accurate assessment of a punter’s effectiveness. The number of punts inside the 20-yard line further highlights a punter’s ability to pin opponents deep in their own territory.
Corey Bojorquez of the Cleveland Browns is second in average punt distance (52.1), sixth in net punt average (44.0) and second in kicks inside the 20 (18) on 40 punts this season. Michael Dickson of the Seattle Seahawks has only punted the ball 29 times in 2024 but is averaging 40.9 net yards per punt. These players demonstrate the value of consistent and accurate punting in dictating field position.
As teams seek to gain every possible advantage, expect an increased emphasis on punters who can combine distance with pinpoint accuracy in 2025.
The Impact of New Rules: Adapting to Change
The NFL is constantly evolving, and rule changes can significantly impact special teams play. The kickoff rule adjustments, aimed at enhancing player safety, have altered return strategies and coverage dynamics.
Teams that can quickly adapt to these changes and develop innovative approaches will be best positioned for success. This may involve prioritizing different types of returners, adjusting coverage schemes, or emphasizing specific tackling techniques.
In 2025, the ability to anticipate and adapt to rule changes will be a key differentiator for special teams units.
Conclusion: Special Teams Supremacy
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, keep a close eye on these special teams stats. They offer valuable insights into which teams are excelling in this often-overlooked aspect of the game. From field goal accuracy to return game explosiveness, coverage prowess to coaching acumen, the numbers don’t lie: special teams will play a pivotal role in determining the league’s top contenders.