Top 10 White Punt Returners of All Time: The Best to Ever Field a Kick
The domain of NFL punt returners has seen its share of standout performances, and among them, the top 10 white punt returners of all time have cemented their place through skill and tenacity. From Wes Welker’s quick maneuvers to Steve Tasker’s prowess on special teams, these athletes brought more than just speed; they brought strategic brilliance.
Danny Amendola and Julian Edelman displayed a knack for critical plays in high-pressure moments, elevating their teams to new heights. But what sets these players apart in a league filled with talent? Their unique contributions will invite you to reflect on their indelible legacy on the gridiron.
Table of Contents
1. Wes Welker
- Position: Wide Receiver/Punt Returner
- Height/Weight: 5’9″, 185 lbs
- Teams: San Diego Chargers (2004), Miami Dolphins (2004-2006), New England Patriots (2007-2012), Denver Broncos (2013-2014), Los Angeles Rams (2015)
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Wes Welker, renowned for his tenure with the New England Patriots, was a dynamo on the field noted for his exceptional quickness and reliability. As a punt returner, Welker was known for his razor-sharp instincts and ability to find seams in coverage, making him a consistent threat.
He often used his agility and low center of gravity to elude tacklers, contributing considerably to field position gains.
His impact was amplified by his dual role as a prolific wide receiver, where he set numerous records and became Tom Brady’s trusted target. Welker’s legacy is cemented by his gritty play and his integral role in New England’s offensive success during his years with the team.
Accolades:
- 5× Pro Bowl selection
- 2× NFL receptions leader (2007, 2009)
- New England Patriots All-2000s Team
- Set Patriots franchise records for receptions and receiving yards in a season
2. Steve Tasker
- Years played for the team: 1986-1997 (Buffalo Bills)
- Position: Wide Receiver/Special Teams
- Height/Weight: 5’9″ / 183 lbs
Steve Tasker was a dynamo for the Buffalo Bills, becoming a special teams legend during the late 80s and 90s. Known for his fiery competitiveness and remarkable agility, Tasker’s prowess as a punt returner and coverage man was essential in the Bills’ success during their four consecutive Super Bowl appearances.
His uncanny ability to read plays and maneuver through opponents allowed him to contribute notably in vital moments, often shifting the game’s momentum. Tasker’s influence went beyond the field as he set a benchmark for what a dedicated special teams player could achieve, cementing his legacy as one of the best in that role.
- Accolades:
- 7-time Pro Bowler
- 5-time All-Pro
- NFL Special Teams Player of the Year (1996)
- Buffalo Bills Wall of Fame inductee
- Recorded over 100 special teams tackles
3. Danny Amendola
- Position: Wide Receiver/Punt Returner
- Height/Weight: 5’11”, 190 lbs
- Teams: St. Louis Rams (2009–2012), New England Patriots (2013–2017), Miami Dolphins (2018), Detroit Lions (2019–2020), Houston Texans (2021)
Danny Amendola was a dynamic and versatile player known for his sharp route running and sure-handedness as both a receiver and punt returner. During his time with the New England Patriots, Amendola frequently made clutch plays, endearing himself to fans and earning a reputation as a dependable performer in high-pressure situations.
His punt return skills added an extra dimension to his game, often providing the team with advantageous field positions. Amendola’s impact was particularly felt during the postseason, where he consistently delivered significant plays, underscoring his importance to the team’s success.
- Accolades:
- Two-time Super Bowl champion (XLIX, LI)
- AFC Special Teams Player of the Week
- 92 NFL games played with the Patriots
- Known for vital playoff performances, including key catches and returns
4. Wayne Chrebet
- Position: Wide Receiver/Punt Returner
- Height/Weight: 5’10”, 188 lbs
- Teams: New York Jets 1995-2005
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Wayne Chrebet’s journey is an inspiring tale of perseverance and grit. Despite going undrafted in 1995, he became a legendary figure for the New York Jets.
As a wide receiver with exceptional agility and reliable hands, Chrebet was also a key contributor as a punt returner. Known for his fearless playing style, he consistently delivered in clutch moments, earning him the moniker “Mr. Third Down” for his vital conversions.
Chrebet’s tenacity and performance in critical situations have secured his legacy as a fan favorite and an indelible part of Jets lore.
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- Accolades:
- New York Jets’ top-10 all-time receptions leader
- Key player in multiple playoff appearances
- Jets’ Spirit Award recipient
- Inducted into the New York Jets Ring of Honor in 2014
5. Julian Edelman
- Position: Wide Receiver/Punt Returner
- Height/Weight: 5’10″/198 lbs
- Teams: New England Patriots (2009-2020)
Julian Edelman made a significant impact as a punt returner for the New England Patriots during his illustrious career. Known for his agility, precise footwork, and ability to read the field, Edelman was often seen weaving through defenders with remarkable ease.
One of his most memorable moments came during the AFC Championship Game in 2014 when his 69-yard punt return touchdown propelled the Patriots into a dominant position. Edelman’s style was characterized by his fearless approach and keen awareness, contributing to his legacy as one of the most reliable special teams players in Patriots history.
Accolades:
- 3× Super Bowl Champion (XLIX, LI, LIII)
- Super Bowl LIII MVP
- New England Patriots All-2010s Team
- 1,442 career punt return yards
- 4 punt return touchdowns
6. Tim Dwight
- Position: Wide Receiver / Punt Returner
- Height/Weight: 5’8″ / 185 lbs
- Teams: 1998-2000 (Atlanta Falcons), 2001-2004 (San Diego Chargers), 2005 (New England Patriots), 2006 (New York Jets), 2007 (Oakland Raiders)
Tim Dwight, known for his blazing speed and tenacity, made his mark as a dynamic punt returner in the NFL. Standing at just 5’8″, Dwight used his low center of gravity and quickness to elude tacklers and create excitement on the field.
His most memorable moment came during Super Bowl XXXIII when he returned a kickoff 94 yards for a touchdown, leaving a lasting impression with the Atlanta Falcons.
Dwight’s versatility allowed him to contribute as a receiver and returner, making him a valuable asset. Though small in stature, his impact was immense, symbolizing perseverance and explosiveness in special teams play.
- Accolades:
- Super Bowl appearance with the Atlanta Falcons (1998 season)
- 94-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XXXIII
- Noted for his career average of 25.6 yards per kickoff return
- Renowned for his speed and ability to change game momentum instantly
7. Don Beebe
Position: Wide Receiver / Punt Returner
Height/Weight: 5’11”, 185 lbs
Teams: Buffalo Bills (1989–1994), Carolina Panthers (1995), Green Bay Packers (1996–1997)
Don Beebe was known for his blazing speed and relentless hustle, making him a threat every time he touched the ball. As a key member of the Buffalo Bills’ four Super Bowl teams, Beebe contributed as both a receiver and a punt returner.
His most iconic play wasn’t even a return – it was his famous Super Bowl XXVII chase-down of Leon Lett, showcasing his never-give-up mentality.
Beebe finished his career with over 1,200 punt return yards and was a trusted special teams weapon. His quick acceleration and smart decision-making made him a consistent option in the return game. Beebe’s toughness and grit remain memorable among fans.
Accolades:
- 6 Super Bowl appearances
- Super Bowl Champion (XXXI)
- NFL Fastest Man Competition winner
8. Ryan Switzer
Position: Wide Receiver / Punt Returner
Height/Weight: 5’8”, 185 lbs
Teams: Dallas Cowboys (2017), Oakland Raiders (2018), Pittsburgh Steelers (2018–2020)
Ryan Switzer made an immediate impact as a return specialist in his rookie season with the Cowboys. His quickness and sharp field vision allowed him to excel, and he quickly became known as a reliable option on punt returns.
Switzer’s highlight moment came with an 83-yard punt return touchdown during his rookie campaign.
Throughout his NFL career, Switzer racked up over 1,000 return yards, demonstrating his consistency and durability on special teams. His compact frame and agility made him hard to tackle, allowing him to flip field position frequently.
Accolades:
- NFL All-Rookie Team (2017)
- 83-yard punt return touchdown in rookie season
- Over 1,000 career punt return yards
9. Cole Beasley
Position: Wide Receiver / Punt Returner
Height/Weight: 5’8”, 174 lbs
Teams: Dallas Cowboys (2012–2018), Buffalo Bills (2019–2021, 2022), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2022)
Cole Beasley carved out a role as one of the NFL’s most reliable slot receivers, but early in his career, he contributed as a punt returner. Beasley’s quick cuts and elusiveness made him effective in short-yardage return situations, and he consistently provided his teams with solid field position.
While not the flashiest returner, Beasley totaled over 350 punt return yards, proving to be a dependable option. His ability to secure catches and avoid unnecessary risks made him a valuable special teams contributor.
Accolades:
- Over 5,700 career receiving yards
- 34 career touchdowns
- Key returner during his time with the Cowboys
10. Brandon Stokley
Position: Wide Receiver / Punt Returner
Height/Weight: 5’11”, 197 lbs
Teams: Baltimore Ravens (1999–2002), Indianapolis Colts (2003–2006), Denver Broncos (2007–2009, 2012), Seattle Seahawks (2010), New York Giants (2011)
Brandon Stokley was known for his sure hands and route-running, but he also contributed as a punt returner early in his career. Stokley’s ability to read coverage and find lanes helped him provide steady returns, even if he wasn’t the fastest player on the field.
Stokley’s reliability as a receiver carried over into the return game, where he accumulated nearly 500 punt return yards over his career. His field awareness and knack for making smart decisions kept him in the rotation for punt return duties.
Accolades:
- 2× Super Bowl Champion (XXXV, XLI)
- 5,339 career receiving yards
- Known for his game-winning catch in Peyton Manning’s debut with the Broncos
