Kansas State football fans haven’t had to think much about who will handle kick and punt returns for the Wildcats for a while. Phillip Brooks, a standout in special teams, returned 59 punts and 44 kicks over his six-year college career, racking up an impressive 1,561 return yards and scoring four touchdowns.
Replicating Brooks’ level of performance will be challenging as Chris Klieman and his coaching staff look to a new set of return specialists. However, there’s cautious optimism that they have some promising replacements lined up. K-State plans to deploy some high-profile players on special teams this season. “We like their potential,” Klieman noted. “We have several skilled players who need to touch the ball, and this is a chance for them to do that.”
Dylan Edwards, known for his speed and agility, could handle both kickoff and punt returns. As a highly sought-after recruit from Derby High, he gained 744 all-purpose yards and scored five touchdowns as a freshman at Colorado last season, including 134 yards from returns. Jayce Brown, one of the team’s top wide receivers, is also a candidate for kickoff returns after catching 27 passes for 437 yards and three touchdowns as a freshman.
Additionally, Sterling Lockett could be used for both kickoff and punt returns. With his older brother Tyler and his uncle Aaron being top return specialists, he might be ready to follow in their footsteps.
Klieman also mentioned that wide receiver Keagan Johnson might see action on special teams during the game against Tennessee-Martin on Saturday at Bill Snyder Family Stadium. Adding quarterback Avery Johnson to the mix could further boost the team’s return capabilities.
“I believe we can be very explosive,” Brown said. “Our new special teams coach, Nate Kaczor, is very knowledgeable, and we have the right pieces. Now it’s up to us to perform on game days.”
The performance of K-State’s return game will be intriguing this season. Brooks made a significant impact early in his career, but opponents worked hard to limit his big plays after he returned a few kicks for touchdowns. This new group may get more chances to shine.
They’re eager to seize those opportunities. “I love getting another touch,” Brown said. “Playing on special teams is important because it gives you a chance to make a play. If the coaches trust me to do it, I’d be excited to take on that role.”
