All articles tagged with #kick returner
The Steelers, after a busy offseason, still have five underrated draft needs: a return specialist to replace lost kick/punt returns, a traditional fullback to fit McCarthy’s run-heavy approach, a young punter to stabilize special teams, added depth at outside corner/gunner, and a true nose tackle to anchor the 3-4 and bolster run defense.
The Seattle Seahawks are seeking a new kick returner after waiving Laviska Shenault Jr. due to performance issues. Former NFL player Michael Bumpus suggested three candidates: Kenny McIntosh, Cody White, and Dareke Young. McIntosh has prior kick return experience and has been active in special teams, White has shown potential in recent games, and Young offers speed and versatility. The decision comes as the Seahawks prepare for a crucial upcoming game.
A new "Madden NFL 25" trailer humorously features Steelers' Justin Fields as a kick returner, despite Fields dismissing such a role. The trailer shows Fields in a reverse handoff to Cordarelle Patterson against the Browns. This comes amid Fields' competition with Russell Wilson for the Steelers' starting quarterback position.
All-Pro kick returner Keisean Nixon has agreed to return to the Green Bay Packers after a successful season in which he excelled on both special teams and defense. Nixon, who led the league in kickoff return yards and earned All-Pro honors for the second consecutive year, also saw an increased role as a nickel cornerback, recording a career-high 79 tackles. He initially joined the Packers on a minimum-salary contract in 2022 and has now secured a new deal to continue with the team.
Keisean Nixon has agreed to a new three-year deal with the Green Bay Packers worth $18 million, potentially rising to $19.2 million with incentives. Known for his kick returning skills, Nixon has been a first-team All-Pro player for the last two seasons, averaging 27.6 yards per return. He also contributed on defense, starting 13 times in the 2023 season and finishing with 80 tackles, an interception, and six passes defensed.
The Philadelphia Eagles have signed cornerback and kick returner Isaiah Rodgers, who was previously suspended by the NFL for violating the league's gambling policy. Rodgers, a former sixth-round pick of the Indianapolis Colts, has recorded 88 tackles, 10 passes defensed, and three interceptions in his career. The Eagles also waived defensive tackle Noah Elliss with an injury settlement.
The Detroit Lions have invited St. Louis Battlehawks wide receiver and XFL Special Teams Player of the Year Darrius Shepherd to their rookie minicamp tryout. Shepherd has found success in the XFL as a receiver and kick returner, and could potentially fill the Lions' need for a kick returner. The Lions were also reportedly considering XFL kicker John Parker Romo for a tryout, but it's unclear if he will be attending.
The Denver Broncos have signed cornerback and kick return specialist Tremon Smith to a two-year deal worth up to $5.5 million. Smith has played for five different teams in his five-year career and is known for his kick return abilities. He will likely serve as a backup outside corner behind Patrick Surtain II and Damarri Mathis in addition to his return duties. The Broncos continue to make moves as the start of the NFL league year approaches.