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Chiefs Punter's Power Punts Lead to Praise
17 Aug
Summary
- Punter Matt Araiza shows improved touch and distance on his kicks.
- Araiza's punting approach has evolved over three seasons with the Chiefs.
- Last season, Araiza averaged 47.6 yards per punt over 56 attempts.
Kansas City Chiefs' special teams unit is benefiting from the remarkable development of punter Matt Araiza. His evolution in the three years with the team has been a significant talking point.
Coach Toub highlighted Araiza's improved touch on pooch punts and his ability to "bomb the ball," projecting consistent hang times over 5.0 seconds. This skill is crucial for the gunners to cover effectively, significantly impacting field position.
Araiza himself described his punting as requiring "two completely different swings," akin to golf clubs, each with distinct thought processes for desired outcomes. This mental separation has aided his development.
Last season, Araiza punted 56 times for an average of 47.6 yards per punt. In the recent preseason opener against the Los Angeles Rams, he delivered five punts totaling 222 yards, with a long of 57 yards and three kicks placed inside the 20-yard line.
