What Does Special Teams Mean in Football?

By Sarah Miller · September 30, 2051

In American football, special teams refer to the units responsible for all kicking plays, including punts, field goals, kickoffs, and extra point attempts. This phase of the game involves specialized players and strategies distinct from offense and defense, playing a crucial role in field position, scoring, and momentum shifts.

What Are Special Teams in Football?

Special teams are one of the three core components of an American football team, alongside offense and defense. These units handle all kicking-related situations during a game. While often overlooked, special teams can dramatically influence outcomes through big returns, blocked kicks, or reliable scoring.

Key Responsibilities of Special Teams

Executing kickoffs to limit return yardage
Punting to improve field position
Attempting field goals and extra points
Returning punts and kickoffs for gains or touchdowns
Covering kicks to prevent long returns

Core Special Teams Units Explained

Each special teams unit has a specific function and set of players trained for precision and timing.

Kickoff Team

This unit kicks the ball from the 35-yard line (as of NFL rules) after scores and at the start of halves. The goal is to pin the opposing team deep in their territory while minimizing return opportunities.

Punt Team

Used on fourth down when a team chooses not to attempt a field goal or go for it. The punter aims to maximize distance and hang time to push the opponent back.

Field Goal and Extra Point Units

The field goal unit includes the holder, kicker, and protection line. Accuracy and consistency under pressure define elite kickers like Justin Tucker.

Return Units

Comprising punt returners and kickoff returners, these players aim to gain significant yardage or score. Speed, vision, and decision-making are critical traits.

Key Players on Special Teams

While some athletes play on multiple units, others specialize exclusively in special teams due to their unique skill sets.

Player	Team (2024)	Role	Notable Achievement
Justin Tucker	Baltimore Ravens	Kicker	Most accurate FG% in NFL history (87.7%)
Braden Mann	Los Angeles Rams	Punter	2023 Net Punting Avg: 45.2 yards
Kene Nwangwu	Minnesota Vikings	Kick Returner	2 Kickoff return TDs in 2023 season
Tress Way	Washington Commanders	Punter	2023 Gross Punt Avg: 49.1 yards
Harrison Butker	Kansas City Chiefs	Kicker	Sep 2023: Made 62-yard game-winning FG

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that top-tier special teams players significantly impact field position and scoring. For example, elite net punt averages above 45 yards reduce opponents' starting field position, while reliable kickers maintain high success rates even beyond 50 yards. Return specialists like Nwangwu demonstrate how explosive plays can shift momentum instantly.

Strategies and Trends in Modern Special Teams

Coaches increasingly use analytics to guide decisions such as going for two-point conversions, using surprise onside kicks, or opting for fake punts. Field position battles are central to winning strategies.

Common Strategic Decisions

Onside kicks: High-risk, high-reward plays typically used late in games.
Pinback vs. touchback: Kickers may aim for the corner to avoid touchbacks and force returns.
Fourth-down aggressiveness: Teams like the Eagles and Ravens have increased fake punt attempts based on situational advantage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Special Teams in Football

Why are they called special teams in football?

The term "special teams" refers to the specialized nature of these units, which perform distinct tasks requiring unique skills unlike those of offensive or defensive players. These roles include precise kicking, blocking, and returning under structured formations.

Do special teams count toward player stats?

Yes, special teams contribute significantly to individual statistics. Kickers earn points for field goals and extra points, punters track average yards, and returners accumulate return yardage and touchdowns. Additionally, coverage players may record tackles made during kick returns.

Can a defensive or offensive player also play special teams?

Absolutely. Many starters participate in special teams, especially early in their careers. Linebackers and wide receivers often join coverage or return units to increase playing time and showcase versatility. Stars like Devin Hester began as return specialists before expanding roles.

What is a special teams touchdown?

A special teams touchdown occurs when a player scores directly from a kicking play—such as a kickoff return, punt return, or blocked field goal returned for a touchdown. These plays are rare but highly impactful, often changing the momentum of a game.

How important are special teams in winning games?

Extremely important. Strong special teams improve field position, provide scoring opportunities, and create turnovers. Coaches emphasize this phase because even small advantages—like a 5-yard improvement in net punting—can lead to more wins over a season.