The Rise of the Special Teams Guru: How Coaches Like Brian Aukerman Are Redefining NFL Success
For years, special teams were often considered the afterthought of NFL strategy. A necessary evil, perhaps, but rarely a game-changer. That’s rapidly changing. The Atlanta Falcons’ recent hiring of Brian Aukerman as their special teams coordinator isn’t just another coaching move; it’s a signal of a league-wide shift. Teams are increasingly recognizing that consistently strong special teams play – and the coaches who build them – can be the difference between a playoff berth and an early offseason. In fact, a recent study by Pro Football Focus showed that teams ranking in the top third in special teams efficiency have a 68% chance of making the playoffs, compared to just 32% for those in the bottom third.
Aukerman’s Ascent: A Career Built on Consistency
Aukerman’s career trajectory is a testament to the growing value placed on special teams expertise. Starting as a defensive assistant with the Denver Broncos in 2010, he steadily climbed the ranks, dedicating himself to the often-overlooked third phase of the game. His seven seasons with the Tennessee Titans, culminating in the role of Assistant Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator, were particularly impactful. During his tenure, the Titans reached the postseason four times, demonstrating a clear correlation between strong special teams and overall team success. He honed his skills coaching Pro Bowl talents like punter Brett Kern and long snapper Morgan Cox, proving his ability to identify and develop top-tier specialists.
From Titans to Falcons: A Pattern of Winning
Aukerman’s resume isn’t just about longevity; it’s about consistent results. Before joining the Falcons, he spent a year with the Los Angeles Rams, contributing to a 10-7 season and a playoff appearance. This pattern – a proven track record of improving special teams performance and contributing to winning teams – is precisely why the Falcons sought him out. The Falcons, under new leadership, are clearly signaling their intent to compete on all fronts, and investing in a proven special teams coordinator is a key component of that strategy. This move aligns with a broader trend of teams prioritizing special teams as a competitive advantage.
The Evolving Role of the Special Teams Coordinator
The role of the special teams coordinator has evolved dramatically in recent years. No longer simply responsible for kickoffs, punts, and field goals, today’s coordinators are strategic masterminds, deeply involved in game planning and personnel decisions. They analyze opponent tendencies, identify weaknesses in coverage units, and develop innovative schemes to maximize yardage and scoring opportunities. The increasing complexity of NFL rules and the emphasis on field position have further elevated the importance of this position.
Consider the impact of rule changes designed to increase player safety. These changes, while necessary, have also created new challenges for special teams coordinators, requiring them to adapt their strategies and find creative ways to maintain effectiveness. The ability to analyze data, identify trends, and implement innovative solutions is now paramount. This is where coaches like Aukerman, with their extensive experience and proven track record, truly excel.
Beyond Aukerman: A League-Wide Trend
The Falcons’ hiring of Aukerman isn’t an isolated incident. Across the league, teams are investing in specialized coaching talent and dedicating more resources to special teams. The addition of Robert Prince as wide receivers coach and Bob Quinn as senior advisor to the head coach further demonstrates the Falcons’ commitment to building a strong coaching staff. This trend is driven by a growing understanding that even small advantages in special teams can have a significant impact on game outcomes.
Furthermore, the increasing use of analytics in football has shed new light on the value of special teams. Metrics like net punt yardage, kickoff return average, and field goal percentage are now closely scrutinized, providing coaches with valuable data to inform their decisions. This data-driven approach is transforming the way special teams are evaluated and coached.
The Future of Special Teams: Innovation and Analytics
Looking ahead, the future of special teams will be shaped by two key factors: innovation and analytics. Coaches will continue to experiment with new formations, techniques, and strategies to gain a competitive edge. The use of advanced analytics will become even more sophisticated, providing coaches with deeper insights into opponent tendencies and player performance. We can expect to see a greater emphasis on specialized roles within special teams units, with players being specifically trained for coverage, return, or blocking assignments. The special teams coordinator will become an even more integral part of the coaching staff, playing a key role in all aspects of game planning and personnel decisions.
Ultimately, the teams that embrace these changes and invest in the expertise of coaches like Brian Aukerman will be the ones that thrive in the increasingly competitive landscape of the NFL. The days of treating special teams as an afterthought are over. It’s now a critical component of success, and the league is finally recognizing its true value.
For more in-depth analysis of special teams performance, see Pro Football Focus.
What are your predictions for the impact of Brian Aukerman on the Atlanta Falcons’ special teams? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
