Iowa State University has announced its new special teams coaching staff for the upcoming football season, with Rob Grande returning as coordinator and Ron Pavlik and Jacob Studdard joining as assistants, bringing experience from various college programs.
University of Michigan announced its new football coaching staff led by Kyle Whittingham, including Jay Hill as Defensive Coordinator, Jernaro Gilford coaching defensive backs, Lewis Powell coaching defensive ends, and Alex Whittingham coaching linebackers, with key staff retained for special teams. The hires bring extensive experience from college and NFL backgrounds to strengthen Michigan’s defense and special teams.
Isaiah Williams, an undrafted wide receiver and kick returner for the Jets, was named the team's 2025 Curtis Martin MVP, recognizing his remarkable journey from practice squad to key contributor, highlighted by game-changing returns and offensive plays, demonstrating his determination, versatility, and growth throughout the season.
Detroit Lions' coaches discussed season reflections, emphasizing the need to improve explosive plays allowed on defense, praised players like Kalif Raymond and Isaac TeSlaa, and highlighted key players' development and upcoming game strategies against the Chicago Bears.
The article reviews the NFL's Week 17 and highlights the top rookie players across various positions, including defensive linemen, linebackers, cornerbacks, safeties, and special teams, as well as first-year coaches, with Jacksonville's Liam Coen and Anthony Campanile receiving particular praise for their impressive first seasons.
The Seahawks' special teams unit has been crucial in recent wins, with Rashid Shaheed notably scoring a 58-yard punt return touchdown in Week 16, contributing to their overtime victory and earning recognition for his performance, highlighting the importance of special teams in the team's success.
Shemar Stewart is set to return from injury for the Bengals' game in Miami, aiming to make an impact after missing five games, while rookie Ke'Shawn Williams, claimed off waivers, may also play and contribute on special teams. The team faces some injury concerns with other players like Tee Higgins and Joseph Ossai limited in practice.
The Bears' strong running game, led by Swift and Monangai, has been crucial to their success, and their special teams made a notable play in their recent win. They are preparing for a key matchup against the Packers, emphasizing their ground attack and team effort.
The New England Patriots waived linebacker Caleb Murphy, who was claimed from the Chargers in October 2025. Murphy, a Ferris State alum, played five games with the Patriots mainly on special teams, after stints with the Titans and Chargers. Overall, he has appeared in 19 NFL games with 9 tackles and 10 special teams tackles.
Stanton Weber, a former K-State player and coach, has returned to his alma mater as the special teams coordinator, expressing excitement to reconnect with the team and contribute to the program's success under coach Collin Klein.
Nebraska has added Australian kicker Michael Sarikizis from Prokick Australia to its 2026 recruiting class, emphasizing the program's focus on specialized, developmental talent and roster stability, especially in the crucial kicking position, under coach Matt Rhule and special teams coordinator Mike Ekeler.
The Falcons lost to the Jets 27-24 in Week 13, with special teams errors costing them crucial points, despite a strong performance by Bijan Robinson. The loss worsens their playoff chances, highlighting issues in their special teams and overall execution.
The Baltimore Ravens are on a three-game winning streak, turning their season around with strong defense, opportunistic takeaways, and resilient team effort, despite a slow start. Key players like Keondre Jackson and rookies are making impactful plays, and the team remains optimistic about their upcoming games, aiming to reach .500 and build momentum.
The Raiders have fired special teams coordinator Tom McMahon and appointed assistant Derius Swinton as interim coordinator, as part of a coaching shakeup mid-season.
After a poor 10-7 loss to the Broncos marked by penalties, missed kicks, and special teams errors, the Raiders fired their special teams coordinator Tom McMahon, with assistant Derius Swinton II taking over. The team has struggled with special teams issues throughout the season, contributing to their 2-7 record.