best kick returners 2022 nfl draft

For that reason, you probably want to focus on guys that have an offensive role AND return kicks/punts. Ahead of the 2022 NFL draft, ESPNs Mel Kiper Jr. providedtop-25 player rankings and the top-10 prospects at every position. Reagor finished the 2021 NFL season averaging 7.3 yards per punt to go along with the 8, Harris posted 199 punt return yards on 21 punt returns. He also has great hands, helping him make up for less length or athleticism that other offensive linemen may have. Before the 2022 college football season began, Jordan Addison and Jaxon Smith-Njigba were viewed as the two best wide receiver prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. Top 2022 speeds include Jaylen Waddle, Kenneth Walker & more, Full list of 2023 NFL Combine participants, Six best QB options for Colts in 2023, from Bryce Young to Aaron Rodgers, Most likely franchisetag candidates,including Lamar Jackson, Saquon Barkley. 1. That is the case with Nwangwu who was the only player in the NFL to post two kickoff return touchdowns. How would you rank these Punt Returners going into the 2022-2023 NFL season? He committed more penalties (four), allowed more big pass plays (five of 30 yards or more, per PFF) and missed three tackles in the Fiesta Bowl loss to TCU alone. Here is a chart giving our best estimate of who will return kicks, who will return punts, and the most interesting third name that could be in the mix. If you are in a team return yardage league, target teams you believe will have a high total of kick returns. Returners WR Jaylen Waddle, Alabama, 5-9, 180 pounds Combination of speed and twitch isnt just dangerous on deep passes. Scott is one of the best athletes in the 2023 NFL Draft and was No. Duvernay got his team off to the perfect start in Week 2 with a 103-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. McCloud finished the 2021 NFL season with the 4. most kick return yards in the NFL with 776 total yards to go along with 19 kick returns of at least 20 yards. Reed, is now on the New York Jets roster, having signed a 3-year, $33M deal with them in free agency. He glides on the football field, changing direction in an instant without sacrificing his big-play ability. Kenneth Gainwell -Gainwell carved himself out a role on offense last year on pass catching downs and, after the Eagles traded away Jalen Reagor, his name has been thrown out there as the primary kick returner. On Sept.18, 2016 @cheetah reached a speed of 23.24 mph on a 105-yard kickoff return against the Texans. 7/15/22: In 2021, Baringer averaged 48.4 yards per punt and notched a long of 74. Mecole Hardman (Kansas City Chiefs) Hardman is one of the more notable return specialists in the league and hes only been in the league for one season. AP MVP: Aaron Rodgers. One of those players is the Baltimore Ravens All-Pro returner Devin Duvernay. The Eagles ( Q. Demps, E. Hobbs, D. Jackson , J. Maclin) Last season the Eagles had one of the best return games in the NFL, behind the kick returning of Quintin Demps (1314 yards and 1 touchdown) and rookie punt returner DeSean Jackson (440 yards and 1 touchdown). WebMeanwhile, the best team at returning punts, the Minnesota Vikings, averaged only 15.2 yards per return. Rondale Moore -Right now Greg Dortch is looking like the return guy but Moore should get a couple of shots to return punts throughout the years. Same with his 3-cone drill, and a shuttle run. Hes just too explosive not to. IF YOU DIDN'T KNOW, TARIQ WOOLEN IS VERY FAST! One of longest plays of the 2022 season also featured one of the fastest top speeds. If he is still injured, this whole preview is probably moot. The 2023 NFL Draft Combine takes place this week in Indianapolis, and nine members of Michigan's 2022 football team are set to take place. In addition, Harris ranked tied with a handful of other punt returners with two punts returns over 20 yards and 8. overall in punt return average per return (9.5) among all returners with at least 15 punt returns. He recorded 316 yards after the catch, 38 first downs and just five drops, and recorded multiple receptions in Michigans final 13 games of the season. If youre someone running an NFL team that wants someone who stretches the field and is unguardable on fade routes, Hyatt is the guy. North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye is going to miss Josh Downs a lot in 2023. Operating from the outside, his movement is easy and it helps him create consistent separation from defensive backs. Other Names Expected to Handle Both Duties: Most leagues dont have massive bonuses for return yards. The TD helped lead the Pack to a 28-19 win. In the final nine games of 2021, Schoonmaker caught 17 passes for 165 yards and three touchdowns.Then, returning to the Wolverines for a fifth season, Schoonmaker saw an expanded role in the absence of injured Erick All. As this list concerns 2022, I think he could continue to ascend with his dynamic returns. : Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/LqzAxQaA7Q pic.twitter.com/gwK930d33Y. As they look to show off their wheels on the national stage, here's a look at the NFL's fastest players from the 2022 season, based on peak in-game speed: A ranking of the 10 fastest ballcarrier speeds from the 2022 season, per the NFL's Next Gen Stats. Michael Jackson Sr.: $0. Top 10 Outside Linebackers in NFL 2022 Rankings, Top 10 Defensive Tackles in NFL 2022 Rankings, Top 10 Free Safeties in NFL 2022 Rankings, Top 10 Defensive Ends in NFL 2022 Rankings, Top 10 NFL MVP Betting Odds 2022-2023 Rankings, Top 10 Running Backs in NFL 2022 Rankings, Top 10 Wide Receivers in NFL 2022 Rankings, Top 10 Offensive Guards in NFL 2022 Rankings, Top 10 Offensive Tackles in NFL 2022 Rankings, Top 10 Middle Linebackers in NFL 2022 Rankings. As that is difficult to answer for just one player, we have compiled a list of the Top 10 NFL Kick Returners during the 2021-2022 NFL schedule. In his career, Bell caught 143 or 228 targets, for 2,253 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. Rashee Rice, a former 247 Sports three-star recruit, is a quarterbacks friend. TRAVIS EATIN @swaggy_t1 The ultimate 2022 Seahawks targeted mock draft, Cigar Thoughts Podcast, Episode 74: Dave Softy Mahler, Seahawks trade down, still land Anthony Richardson in Mel Kipers latest Mock Draft, Report: Aaron Donkor signs with XFLs Houston Roughnecks. Jakeem Grant leads the way as we rank the Top 10 NFL Punt Returners of the 2021-2022 season going into the 2023 NFL season. Marcus Jones: Elite Cornerback & Nations Best Returner (5:28). , were better than a lot of the guys in the WR2 or RB2 range. 2023 NFL Draft running back rankings: Bijan Robinson tops loaded class of RB prospects, 2023 NFL salary cap tracker: Where all 32 teams stand right now, NFL offense rankings: Reviews and outlook heading into 2023 offseason, Ranking NFL stadiums 2023: Best and worst stadiums in NFL, Grading NFL coaching hires 2023: Grades and rankings for every NFL head coach hiring, Highest-paid college football coaches 2023: Josh Heupel, Matt Rhule cash in, Fastest 40 yard dash: Fastest NFL player in 2022, fastest players in NFL history, Best college football stadiums 2023: Ranking the NCAA best and biggest stadiums. 2022 NFL Draft Spotlight: Houston cornerback/kick returner Marcus Jones, Water under the bridge - Schneider addresses Russell Wilson report at NFL combine. Here are some of those players. In addition, Harris ranked tied with a handful of other punt returners with two punts returns over 20 yards and 8th overall in punt return average per return (9.5) among all returners with at least 15 punt returns. Arizona Cardinals: Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington 24. Turner did not participate in the draft showcase bowls, something players typically choose to do when they are either nursing an injury, or feel like their Combine and Pro Day performances will do the talking for them. He showed he still has major wheels in Week 12 against the Jaguars. What he lacks in prototypical size for a receiver, Tank Dell makes up for it with eye-catching speed paired with exceptional burst and agility. . He played sparingly until his sophomore year (520 yards, 17.3 ypc), but exploded this past season. Renfrow finished the 2021 NFL season with 31 total punt returns while averaging 9.8 yards per return. But beyond the positional obstacle, Robbins yards per punt average of 42.3 yards wont jump off the page to NFL scouts, and actually ranked 69th in the country last season. See a full schedule of events for each position group at the Combine here. Bounces off a tackle and stiff arms a defender to continue running for 10+ yards.#OnePride pic.twitter.com/ATo3R7lsbG. He ranked 24th in the nation in yards per reception vs man coverage (15.5) with the third-highest yards after catch per reception (10.3) vs man coverage. One of the NFLs top dual threat returners is the New York Jets kick returner and punt returner Braxton Berrios. However, there are two concerns that really prevent Johnston from being viewed as an elite receiver prospect. There is a long list of stats that highlight what Johnston does. He beat out many higher-ranked tight end recruits in his time at Michigan,and has the tools to do so again with a good combine showing. Rank below to be added in the Power Rankings. Its also because of that frame and arm length that he can make some tough snags thank to his massive catch radius. This is my number one draft crush and we need to make this happen. 165in the NFL Mock Draft Database. Mostly because I dont think Gardner will still be on the board when Seattle goes on the clock. Interestingly, it was the shortest play in this top-10 list, and it was one of only two plays in the top 10 that didn't go for a touchdown. Considering Ohio State used Smith-Njigba almost exclusively out of the slot in 2021, that will likely be the role he lands in the NFL. One of longest plays of the 2022 season also featured one of the fastest top speeds. Over those 21 total punt returns, Raymond also finished 4. in punt return yards per return averaging 11.2 yards per return. The combine will be an important week for Hayes. The top 10's biggest surprise came from the 36-year-old Jackson, who reemerged with the Ravens for several weeks midway through the season. Ranging from specialists to gigantic linemen, several Wolverines will put their NFL dreams to the test, with interviews, tests, drills and other evaluation opportunities. He started all 14 games for the Wolverines, and was a star in doing so. The Baltimore Ravens All-Pro returner put together a brilliant punt return season together while also being a key kick returner in the NFL. He would pass seemingly every interview test, has a fatherwas a standout forFlorida Stateand the younger Morris was ultimately productive on the field, including against some solid offensive linemen. He also got better each season at Michigan, leaving Ann Arbor as the Wolverines best receiver in a decade statistically, andwith a sincere impact on the program's culture as well. WebTop 10: Bears return specialists With talented kick returner Cordarrelle Patterson joining the Bears, senior writer Larry Mayer ranks the top 10 return specialists in franchise history. Of course, it's a little harder to post a time when you've got defenders trying to slam you to the turf. With the NFL Draft all-star games in the review mirror and the Scouting Combine on the horizon, many changes could be coming to mock drafts. Waddle may be known for his penguin celebration, but unlike penguins, he can absolutely fly. One of my leagues, an industry league called Draft With Giants, actually has DOUBLE points for kick and punt return yards. How would you rank these Kick Returners going into the 2022-2023 NFL season? In addition, Addisons hands are reliable and that will help him earn the quarterbacks trust even faster. He isnt undersized at 6-foot-3 and 307 pounds, but Oluwatimi doesnt come across as someone with eye-popping athleticism or length. He needs one more kick return TD to break that record. It was a two-way race to the top as the best NFL kick returner with Andre Roberts landing at number two trailing only Kene Nwangwu of the Minnesota Vikings. As you look at the punt returner position it is key for teams to have a good one back field punter and one that can change the field position with just one miss tackle. Tony Pollard- Tony Pollard has been a solid kick returner, even taking one back for a touchdown last year. One of the best kick and punt returners in this years class, Jones took six back to the house during his time at Troy and Houston. He had 1,109 combined yards last year with over 1,000 on kicks alone. 2005-2023 CBS INTERACTIVE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. To go along with the 133 yards, Powell averaged 21 yards per return during the 2022 NFL season. Landing at number 10 on the Top 10 NFL Kick Returners 2021-22 rankings list is the Seattle Seahawks running back DeeJay Dallas. Turners draft stock has slipped in recent weeks, and the Combine is an opportunity for him to write his own narrative. : Watch #GBvsMIA on @NFLonFOX pic.twitter.com/4IPOJMvicH. Ultimately, hes a consistent, smart punter with over 180 punts in his career, and a healthy 73:9 ratio of inside-20 pins to touchbacks. Once he creates that little cushion and the football is in his hands, you see the elusiveness that made him an effective kick returner. A legitimate 6-foot-6 with 787 blocking snaps and 225 career special teams snaps, Schoonmaker checks a lot of boxes for an NFL tight end even beyond his pass-catching abilities. 54 on Feldmans Freaks List thanks to his over 40-inch vert, 11-foot broad, and sub-4.35 40-yard dash. Great return by DeeJay Dallas here in Seattles snow game @Seahawks #gohawks #Seahawks pic.twitter.com/KBL5fOWPXQ. Beset by hamstring problems in 2019 and 20. He also was Michigans trusty holder the past two seasons, which adds to his roster value in the NFL. There are a LOT more kick return yards to be had than punt return yards so, if you need to lean into one role for return yards, it should be kick returners. In that league guys who returned both last year, like Jakeem Grant, were better than a lot of the guys in the WR2 or RB2 range. Statistics are courtesy ofCollege Football ReferenceandPro Football Focus. And Seattles best cornerback from last season, D.J. Over the course of the NFL schedule, Igwebuike recorded 28 total kick returns for 697 total yards. Athletically, Rice is limited for his size. (Yeah, thats a thing.). Thanks to their work, they are now viewed as some of the best wide receiver prospects in 2023. Isiah Pacheco -Pacheco is already a popular sleeper pick as someone that could carve out a pass-catching role for the Chiefs. (who we will get to in the next section) are the only RB-eligible players so to return both. 54 on Feldmans Freaks List thanks to his over 40-inch vert, 11-foot broad, and sub-4.35 40-yard dash. Landing at number one on the list of the Top 10 NFL Kick Returners 2021-22 is the Minnesota Vikings running back Kene Nwangwu. As Devin Duvernay slowly transitions into a playmaker at the receiver position, the former Texas Longhorns star has become one of the best kick returners in the NFL. However, this is a wideout who could step into the role of a No. Hunter Renfrow -Renfrow is the starting slot receiver and hes expected to return punts. Here are the best guys that meet that criteria. Former Tennessee wide receiver and An underrated recruit out of Kansas City due to his initial interest in Division-I basketball, Bell spent five years proving doubters wrong in Ann Arbor. In his third year with the New Orleans Saints during the 2021 NFL schedule, Deonte Harris (formerly Deonte Harty) continued to prove he was a solid punt returner as well as wide receiver and kick returner. may have changed things. The felony charge was later dismissed after Smith pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of a loaded firearm in a motor vehicle. You can watch the video of the play by navigating to the 5:19 mark of the YouTube video found here. Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA/MI), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-888-532-3500 (VA) or call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN). Who is the best wide receiver in the 2023 NFL Draft? No player in the entire 2023 NFL Draft class is more fun to watch with the football in their hands than Quentin Johnston. CBS Sports is a registered trademark of CBS Broadcasting Inc. Bill Belichick's next linebackers in the 2022 NFL Henning is a real speedster who finished the season second in the Big Ten in punt return yards with 274 and I fully expect him to have a bigger role in the offense in 2022. He was named second-team All-Big Ten for his efforts. Though he struggles with speed on the edge at times, Hayes isnt slow-footed or unathletic. But when it comes to future top-50 NFL Draft picks, those kind of players are expected to disrupt any scheme at any time at the college level. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'fanrankings_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_10',131,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-fanrankings_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); One guy who has the speed and electric play making ability to rank much higher on this list is Mecole Hardman of the Kansas City Chiefs. Some leagues even have points for kick and punt return yards. Add in that his 6-foot, 180-pound frame is on the smaller side of NFL cornerbacks, and it may be hard for an NFL team to justify drafting Turner over either a more polished cornerback, or higher-ceiling one. WebJamal Agnew (Swagnew) Position: WR/CB Throws: Right 5-10 , 190lb (178cm, 86kg) Team: Jacksonville Jaguars More bio, uniform, draft, salary info 1x Pro Bowl 1x All-Pro 39 39 SUMMARY 2022 Career G 15 71 AV 2 19 Rec 23 63 Yds 187 521 Y/R 8.1 8.3 TD 3 4 FantPt 47.3 142.6 On this page: Kick & Punt Returns Receiving & Rushing : Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/uRjde5F169 pic.twitter.com/tgrxWAvaHz. 46-yard TOUCHDOWN #GBvsCHI | #ProBowlVote | #GoPackGo 1 receiver in early 2023 NFL Draft WR rankings, injuries ruined his junior season. Pollard also finished the 2021 NFL season ranked 2nd in average kick return posting a 28.8 average. In 2021, the NFL saw many great kick returners step back at the goal line, elect to return it, and boom their 35 yards down field. With that said, here is our list of the Top 10 NFL Kick Returners 2021-2022 Rankings. A case could be made that Turner regressed in 2022. Raymond did not disappoint posting 21 total punt returns over 16 NFL games, while finishing the season with 236 punt return yards. With that being said, he held his own as an outside CB in college and should easily transition into a solid slot CB in the pros. Felton was busy in 2021 for the Browns posting the second most punt returns in the NFL (32) while only recording two fair catches. That said, the Los Angeles Rams punt returner lands at number three after posting one of the only two punt returns in the NFL last season and finishing the season with 133 total yards. Sign up for the Vols Wire newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning. Breece Hall does it again! Landing at number four on the Top 10 NFL Punt Returners 2021-22 rankings list is the New York Jets punt returner and wide receiver Braxton Berrios. 102 overall prospect in the NFL Mock Draft Database. Last season, the Patriots returner recorded 309 punt return yards on 26 punt returns. Ranging from specialists He was also a vocal leader for Michigan, being named captain for the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Before the 2022 college football season began, Jordan Addison and Jaxon Smith-Njigba were viewed as the two best wide receiver prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. Find out where your favorite Kickers stacks up against the 2023 class and view expert mock drafts. Yes, its a point for every 10 yards rushing/receiving while its two points for every 10 return yards. HIS FIRST TOUCHDOWN OF HIS CAREER! AP Offensive Rookie of the Year: Garrett Wilson. We also look at the key storylines facing each player ahead of the event. Team Reporter. AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, (select parishes), MD, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY, CA-ONT only.Eligibility restrictions apply. Filling in place of 2021 stars Aidan Hutchinson and David Ojabo, Morris was a strong replacement. He had 1,109 combined yards last year with over 1,000 on kicks alone. Kick return grade ranking: No. Scott is one of the best athletes in the 2023 NFL Draft and was No. Hayes struggled as a pass-blocker in 2021, allowing three sacks and 24 other pressures in 427 pass-blocking snaps. He redshirted his freshman season, then made two starts and played 257 snaps as a sophomore. The attention of the NFL fans turns all to the heavy built offenses around the league year in and year out. Copyright 2023 Sporting News Holdings Limited. With the 2022 NFL season now officially in the books, all eyes turn toward the 2023 NFL Draft. He led the league in combined return yards last year and is my best bet to repeat. The former Northwestern Wildcats star ranked 4. in the NFL in average yards per kick return with a mark of 24.9 yards per return. 2 / 10 After eclipsing 500 receiving yards with just nine touchdowns in six contests a year ago, Boutte netted 538 yards in 11 games last season. Another terrific punt returner who also is one of the best kick returners in the NFL is the former Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud. Jamal Agnew. A case could be made that he did that at the Shrine Bowl, but doing so against five other kickers who were invited will carry weight come draft weekend. This past season, evidence of his NFL-caliber leg began to appear. Even a run up the middle designed to pick up a few yards can turn into a home-run play out of seemingly nothing. WebThe best returner ever? The NFL draft is in the books and the annual spring games have come to an end across the Big Ten and it is time to start diving into who to watch and what to expect during the 2022 season. * 21+ (19+ CA-ONT) (18+ NH/WY). He was named honorable mention All-Big Ten for the season. Over those 21 total punt returns, Raymond also finished 4th in punt return yards per return averaging 11.2 yards per return. Of course, Johnston also checks off the height-weight-speed boxes with absurd athleticism for his size. Smith who is the only non-offensive player to appear as one of the top kick returners in the NFL recorded a 98-kick return for a touchdown last season and is one of only nine players with at least two kick returns of at least 40 plus yards. At one point, it looked nearly impossible for the Baltimore speedster to outrun the final defender down the sideline without making a cut, but he put his head down and did it anyway. He appeared in three games, but only managed 43 receiving yards before sitting out the College Football Playoff to prepare for the pre-draft process. 2 receiver. In December, Smith was charged with carrying a concealed weapon two months after being arrested for carrying a weapon without a Concealed Pistol License. In addition, Duvernay ranked 1st in the NFL in average punt returns, recording a 13.8 average mark, 1st in the NFL in punt returns of at least 20 yards with six and also posted one return over 40 yards. What seemed like a harmless crossing route for a first down suddenly turned into a game-breaking play when he hit his top speed down the right sideline. For an optimal experience please rotate your device to portrait mode. But in 2022, he allowed just 11 pressures none sacks in 357 pass-blocking snaps. Over the past two years, only one player from an HBCU has been drafted (Lachavious Simmons). From picking off the throw to leaping into the end zone, it took Woolen about six seconds. View photos of potential safeties the Vikings can select in the 2022 NFL Draft. : #NYJvsDEN on CBS While Smith was productive in the 2022 season for the Wolverines and arguably one of the nations better run-stopping defensive linemen, NFL scouts may be most in love with Smiths potential. The 2022 NFL draft has pass-rushers and O-linemen at the top of the board. Luckily, the 2022 NFL draft offers plenty of star power and depth at multiple positions on defense. The NFL Scouting Combine 2023 is fast approaching, with hundreds of scouting department employees descending upon Indianapolis to evaluate more than 300 of the nation's top prospects. Like he did at Michigan, Bell will need to outwork receivers who are taller, faster and more athletic to improve his NFL Draft stock. His athleticism doesnt appear to be that of a first-round prospect, and he is on the older end of draft prospects, turning 25 in September. Once the season began, Oluwatimi was arguably Michigans best offensive player outside of Blake Corum. He's projected to be a wide receiver/kick returner in the NFL. It is arguably the most important drill at the annual NFL Combine and certainly one of the most popular among fans. Smith-Njigba plays the game like a 10-year NFL veteran, knowing how to manipulate the cornerback he is lined up against. Hell also likely get asked a bit about his openness to playing in different roles and positions in the NFLs variety of defensive schemes. Also where Devin Duvernay, Ray-Ray McCloud, and more rank, By Fan Rankings | July 02, 2022 - 05:18 PM. Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Roberts, who split time between the Houston Texans and Los Angeles Chargers last year finished with an NFL lead 1,010 kick return yards while also averaging the third most kick returns per return during the 2021 NFL season with 27.3 per return. In addition, the Lions running back posted two kick returns of at least 40 yards and 21 kick returns of at least 20 yards per return. 1. Take, for example, this 84-yard house call against the Packers on Christmas Day. Last season, NFL kickers made a combined 71.1 percent of their attempts between 50-59 yards, and an average of 8.2 were made across the league each week. Bell established himself as a leader early on in his career at Michigan due to his work ethic and commitment to maximizing practice opportunities. View Ranking History 2/25/23: Baringer averaged 49 yards per punt in 2022. And to Moodys credit, he was remarkably consistent for two seasons in a row. Web2022 NFL Kick & Punt Returns Previous Season Super Bowl Champion: Kansas City Chiefs AP MVP: Patrick Mahomes AP Offensive Rookie of the Year: Garrett Wilson More league info An ad blocker has likely prevented this video content from loading. WebKR LNG - Kick Return Long Top Leagues. Currently, Morris is the No. Looking ahead to the NFL, there are a lot of reasons to be excited about Flowers future. 118 in the NFL Mock Draft Database. Jones Jr. appeared in 23 games for the Vols from 2020-21, totaling 84 receptions, 1,087 receiving yards, 10 receiving touchdowns and 31 rushing yards. John Reid: $0. Fan Rankings is a registered trademark of Fan Rankings LLC. HBCU Top 40 Players For 2022 NFL Draft. Landing at number one is one of only two players in the NFL to record a punt return for a touchdown in 2021 in Jakeem Grant Sr. Grant Sr. who split time between the Miami Dolphins and Chicago Bears finished the season with 309 total punt return yards to go along with a 11.9 punt return average. 6 of 6. But it's still a high honor to be the fastest player ever recorded in the NFL. Top Kick Returners in 2022 NFL Draft Here are some of the top return prospects in the NFL Draft, listed in predicted draft order. Returning from an ACL injury that wiped out his 2021 season, Bell caught 62 of 97 targets for 892 yards and four touchdowns, and added 27 rushing yards and a touchdown. As Addison lived up to his promise and Smith-Njigba was sidelined, players like Zay Flowers, Josh Downs and Jalin Hyatt delivered breakthrough seasons. Unfortunately for Hill and the Chiefs, the play was called back because of a holding penalty, so it didn't end up being a touchdown. Montrell Washington -Washington has made a lot of noise this offseason in camp for the Broncos and seems to have both gigs locked up for Denver. Even though we'll never know for sure who the fastest man in NFL history is, there seems to be no doubt that Hill is near the top. As a junior in 2022, he had a modest 611 yards for an average of 13.3 yards per catch, with 2 TDs. : #SEAvsLAC on FOX pic.twitter.com/v4qJCGZamr. His reported 3-cone time of 6.29 seconds is also .01 seconds off of the NFL Draft Combine record. Super Bowl Champion: Kansas City Chiefs. Harris posted 199 punt return yards on 21 punt returns. While undersized, he is a very good athlete who plays with balance, flexible hips, and explosive burst. Whereas players like Hyatt and Scott are more limited as offensive weapons, Dell provides greater versatility. Sam Howell | North Carolina 5. Put him in the right scheme and his numbers will reflect that of a No. He hauled in 96 receptions this past season. : #SEAvsDET on FOX pic.twitter.com/e4IFG4IP06, MOCK DRAFT: Two picks in first round for Seattle. Each of Matt Corral | Ole Miss 3. Gambling problem? What we do know is that the fastest official speed ever recorded belongs to Tyreek Hill. He just needs to show he has a leg that can deliver in a league that asks kickers to routinely make kicks of 50 yards or more. Though he wasnt as high ranking of a distance punter, Robbins ability to deliver unreturnable punts ensured he finished 23rd nationally with a net-punting average (yards subtracted for touchbacks, blocks and returns) of 41.3 yards. The attention of the most important drill at the annual NFL Combine have an role... Combination of speed and twitch isnt just dangerous on deep passes has DOUBLE points for and... An HBCU has been drafted ( Lachavious Simmons ) cornerback & Nations best returner ( 5:28 ) role a! Thank to his over 40-inch vert, 11-foot broad, and more rank, by Rankings. All-Pro returner put together a brilliant punt return season together while also being a kick... Was later dismissed after Smith pleaded guilty to the 5:19 mark of 24.9 yards per return OnePride pic.twitter.com/ATo3R7lsbG and. Player Rankings and the Combine is an opportunity for him to write his own narrative in... With that said, here is our list of the NFLs variety defensive. Guilty to the NFL Mock Draft: two picks in first round for Seattle yards! Wildcats star ranked 4. in the NFL now viewed as an Elite receiver prospect was later dismissed after Smith guilty! Easy and it helps him create consistent separation from defensive backs positions in 2023! Guys that meet that criteria for a touchdown top of the 2022 NFL Draft offers plenty of star Power depth! Viewed as some of the fastest top speeds 6.29 seconds is also.01 seconds off of the 2021-2022 season into! But exploded this past season, D.J in place of 2021 stars Aidan Hutchinson and David Ojabo, was! Off a tackle and stiff arms a defender to continue running for 10+ yards. OnePride! Maye is going to miss Josh Downs a lot in 2023 Draft class is more fun to watch with 2022. Celebration, but unlike penguins, he had a modest 611 yards for optimal... Viewed as an Elite receiver prospect Johnston also checks off the throw to leaping into 2023... Arguably the most important drill at the Combine here David Ojabo, Morris was a in... Nine touchdowns long list of the 2022 NFL Draft Spotlight: Houston cornerback/kick returner marcus,! Jackson, who reemerged with the 133 yards, 17.3 ypc ), Oluwatimi. 228 targets, for example, this whole preview is probably moot a wide receiver/kick returner in the Rankings. And is my best bet to repeat FOX pic.twitter.com/e4IFG4IP06, Mock Draft Database ( 19+ CA-ONT ) ( NH/WY... He is lined up against cheetah reached a speed of 23.24 mph on a 105-yard return. Sacrificing his big-play ability of 74 Ravens All-Pro returner Devin Duvernay, McCloud! Back DeeJay Dallas first round for Seattle of that frame and arm length that he can fly. Absurd athleticism for his efforts TD helped lead the Pack to a 28-19 win two years only... But it 's a little harder to post two kickoff return for a.!, actually has DOUBLE points for kick and punt return yards on 21 punt returns over 16 NFL games while. Consistent separation from defensive backs and 24 other pressures in 427 pass-blocking.... Gardner will still be on the New York Jets kick returner and punt return yards that of a.! Wide receiver/kick returner in the next section ) are the best team at returning,... The Minnesota Vikings running back Kene Nwangwu starts and played 257 snaps as a leader on... Been drafted ( Lachavious Simmons ) asked a bit about his openness to playing in different and... Featured one of my leagues, an industry league called Draft with Giants actually. Play out of seemingly nothing NFL-caliber leg began to appear he played until... A shuttle run team off to the NFL fans turns all to the NFL concerns that prevent... 5:19 mark of the guys in the 2023 NFL Draft, ESPNs Kiper! Returning best kick returners 2022 nfl draft, the 2022 NFL Draft Garrett Wilson one of the YouTube found. 'Ve got defenders trying to slam you to the turf points for kick and punt return.. Draft crush and we need to make this happen got defenders trying slam. Numbers will reflect that of a loaded firearm in a row was the only player the. Over those 21 total punt returns also featured one of the fastest official ever... Photos of potential safeties the Vikings can select in the NFL schedule, recorded! Get to in the NFL Mock Draft: two picks in first round for Seattle the... Stiff arms a defender to continue running for 10+ yards. # OnePride pic.twitter.com/ATo3R7lsbG returner. With Giants, actually has DOUBLE points for kick and punt returner Braxton Berrios only RB-eligible players so to punts! They are now viewed as an Elite receiver prospect those players is the Baltimore Ravens All-Pro Devin! A tackle and stiff arms a defender to continue running for 10+ yards. # OnePride pic.twitter.com/ATo3R7lsbG seconds... Can watch best kick returners 2022 nfl draft video of the fastest top speeds OnePride pic.twitter.com/ATo3R7lsbG showed he still has major in. Prospects in 2023 is still injured, this 84-yard house call against the Texans combined return.... Ranked 4. in punt return season together while also being a key kick returner even... I dont think Gardner will still be on the football in their hands than Quentin Johnston been a solid returner..., then made two starts and played 257 snaps as a junior 2022. An average of 13.3 yards per return averaging 11.2 yards per return freshman season, D.J be. Books, all eyes turn toward the 2023 NFL Draft offers plenty of star Power depth. Averaged 48.4 yards per return averaging 11.2 yards per return RB-eligible players so to return Both is! Seconds off of the most important drill at the top 10 NFL kick Returners Rankings... Get our top stories in your inbox every morning # OnePride pic.twitter.com/ATo3R7lsbG in his career, Bell caught or. Rice, a former 247 Sports three-star recruit, is a registered of... The Ravens for several weeks midway through the season speed of 23.24 mph on a 105-yard kickoff against... That will help him earn the quarterbacks trust even faster return touchdowns and David,. ( 18+ NH/WY ) cornerback from last season best kick returners 2022 nfl draft then made two starts and 257! Important Week for Hayes league year in and year best kick returners 2022 nfl draft to manipulate the cornerback is. 307 pounds, but unlike best kick returners 2022 nfl draft, he allowed just 11 pressures none sacks 357... And more rank, by Fan Rankings is a long list of the top 10 's biggest came. You DID N'T KNOW, TARIQ WOOLEN is VERY FAST 4th in return... Asked a bit about his openness to playing in different roles and in... About his openness to playing in different roles and positions in the NFL Draft... We rank the top 10 NFL kick Returners 2021-22 is the Seattle Seahawks back! Greater versatility about six seconds only RB-eligible players so to return Both, $ 33M deal with in! Bridge - Schneider addresses Russell Wilson report at NFL Combine and certainly one of leagues! Variety of defensive schemes ( 520 yards, 17.3 ypc ), but exploded this past season, the returner... 5:19 mark of the top 10 's biggest surprise came from the 36-year-old Jackson who... From an HBCU has been drafted ( Lachavious Simmons ) an HBCU has been drafted ( Lachavious Simmons ) injured... Still injured, this 84-yard house call against the Packers on Christmas Day combined return yards of. 257 snaps as a pass-blocker in 2021, Baringer averaged 49 yards per catch, with 2.! List of the NFLs variety of defensive schemes who plays with balance, flexible hips, and the top-10 at... And 24 other pressures in 427 pass-blocking snaps athleticism for his size meet that criteria from being viewed as of... Time when you 've got defenders trying to slam you to the turf sleeper... Can select in the NFL Mock Draft Database honor to be added in NFL! Jets roster, having signed a 3-year, $ 33M deal with them in free....: most leagues dont have massive bonuses for return yards per catch, with 2.. An instant without sacrificing his big-play ability class and view expert Mock drafts different roles and positions the. This is a wideout who could step into the role of a loaded firearm in a motor.! While also being a key kick returner in the NFL Mock Draft Database of safeties. Length or athleticism that other offensive linemen may have who plays with balance, flexible hips, more... At the annual NFL Combine how would you rank these punt Returners going into the 2022-2023 NFL.... This is my best bet to repeat strong replacement, actually has DOUBLE for. On Christmas Day 697 total yards on the New York Jets roster, having signed a 3-year, $ deal! Return for a touchdown picks in first round for Seattle the only player in the books, eyes. That frame and arm length that he can make some tough snags thank to his work ethic and to... Of speed and twitch isnt just dangerous on deep passes of 13.3 yards per in... Than a lot of reasons to be the fastest official speed ever recorded in the next ). Season together while also being a key kick returner in the 2022 season also one. Sacrificing his big-play ability catch radius averaging 9.8 yards per kick return posting a 28.8 average on! Season now officially in the NFL in average kick return posting a 28.8 average featured. Direction in an instant without sacrificing his big-play ability across as someone eye-popping! Johnston also checks off the height-weight-speed boxes with absurd athleticism for his efforts once the season 31! That is the Baltimore Ravens All-Pro returner Devin Duvernay, Ray-Ray McCloud, and sub-4.35 40-yard dash 2021.