Browns' Special Teams: A Focus on Returns for a Stronger 2025

The 2024 season presented a mixed bag for the Browns' special teams unit, with inconsistent performance from the kicking game and a clear need for improvement in the return game.

Under coordinator Bubba Ventrone, the unit is making a concerted effort to address these areas for 2025, particularly by bolstering its return specialists.

Kicker Dustin Hopkins, who set franchise records in 2023 for field goals made and those from 50+ yards, experienced a dip in production in 2024. He converted 18 of 27 field goal attempts (66.7%) and 17 of 20 extra point attempts (85%).

This was a notable decline from Hopkins' impressive 2023 campaign where he was successful on 33 of 36 field goals (91.7%) and 24 of 26 extra points (92.3%). While injuries undoubtedly factored into his lower volume and potentially his accuracy, the need for a return to his previous form is evident.

Punter Corey Bojorquez, however, continued to be a consistent weapon in 2024. He averaged 49.3 yards on 89 punts, with a long of 84 yards, and effectively pinned opponents deep with 36 punts inside the 20-yard line. Bojorquez's ability to consistently flip field position remains a significant asset for the Browns' defense.

The most critical area for improvement heading into 2025 is undoubtedly the return game. In 2024, Jerome Ford handled the majority of kickoff returns, averaging 25.9 yards on 15 returns for 388 yards, with a long of 56. Pierre Strong Jr. also contributed with 11 returns for 255 yards (23.2 YPR).

On punt returns, James Proche II had the most opportunities with 19 returns for 172 yards, averaging 9.1 yards, while Jaelon Darden saw limited action. Crucially, neither unit consistently generated the explosive plays or advantageous field position that can be game-changers.

This pressing need for an upgrade led the Browns to make a strategic move for the 2025 season, bringing in veteran return specialist DeAndre Carter. Carter, who spent 2024 with the Chicago Bears, has a proven NFL track record. In 2024, he returned 15 kickoffs for 479 yards, averaging a strong 31.9 yards per return, including a long of 67 yards. He also handled 17 punt returns for 158 yards, averaging 9.3 yards, with a long of 38. His career highlights include a 101-yard kickoff return touchdown in 2021 with the Washington Commanders.

As of today, Carter is projected to be the primary kick and punt returner for the Browns. His experience, reliability, and big-play ability are exactly what the team sought to inject into this phase of their special teams.

Behind Carter, depth options for kick returns are expected to include Jerome Ford and Pierre Strong Jr., who both have experience from 2024. On the punt return side, Kaden Davis is also listed as a potential backup, having made his way to the Browns' active roster late in 2024 and demonstrating return ability in his career.

Ventrone's philosophy emphasizes consistency and impact. "Every week is a new week and a new start," he said last year. With a renewed focus on the return game and the addition of a proven talent like DeAndre Carter, the Browns' special teams unit aims to be a more formidable and consistently impactful force in 2025, contributing significantly to the team's overall success.