For a little while, the punt returner spot was looking pretty iffy, but the Vikings just gave the spot a much-needed boost.
After the departure of Marcus Sherels, who had been the team’s primary punt returner for the past eight seasons, there were concerns about who would step up and fill his shoes. The Vikings experimented with several players during training camp and the preseason, but none seemed to solidify their spot as the go-to returner.
But then, in a surprising move, the Vikings traded for wide receiver and return specialist, Marcus Green, from the Atlanta Falcons. Green, a sixth-round pick in this year’s draft, had impressed during his time in Atlanta with his speed and agility, making him a dangerous return threat.
And it seems like the Vikings’ gamble has paid off. In the first two games of the regular season, Green has already shown his potential as a punt returner. In the season opener against the Falcons, he returned two punts for a total of 48 yards, including a 23-yard return that set up a Vikings touchdown. And in Week 2 against the Packers, Green had a 25-yard return that helped set up a field goal.
But it’s not just his stats that make Green an exciting addition to the team. It’s his explosiveness and elusiveness on the field that has caught the attention of fans and coaches alike. He has a knack for finding open lanes and making defenders miss, making him a threat to take it all the way every time he touches the ball.
Green’s success as a punt returner is not surprising considering his college career at Louisiana-Monroe. In his senior year, he led the nation in punt return average with an impressive 15.8 yards per return. He also had two punt return touchdowns, showcasing his ability to make big plays on special teams.
But Green’s impact goes beyond just punt returns. He also adds depth to the wide receiver position, which has been plagued by injuries in recent years. With his speed and route-running ability, he can be a valuable asset in the passing game as well.
And let’s not forget about the other players who have stepped up in the punt returner role. Chad Beebe, who was an undrafted free agent last year, has also shown promise in the preseason and has been a reliable option for the Vikings. He had a 14-yard return against the Packers and has shown good decision-making skills when it comes to fielding punts.
Even cornerback Mike Hughes, who is still recovering from a torn ACL, has been practicing punt returns and could potentially add another dimension to the Vikings’ special teams when he returns to the field.
Overall, the Vikings’ punt returner spot may have been a cause for concern at the beginning of the season, but with the addition of Marcus Green and the emergence of other players, it’s now looking like a position of strength. Green’s explosiveness and playmaking ability have injected new life into the special teams unit and have given the Vikings a much-needed boost in the return game.
So, Vikings fans, don’t worry about the punt returner spot anymore. With Marcus Green and other talented players in the mix, it’s safe to say that the Vikings’ special teams will be a force to be reckoned with this season. Skol!
