When it comes to football, punters rarely get the spotlight they deserve. Yet, these specialists are pivotal, often swinging the field position and helping their teams control the game in ways that don’t always show up in box scores.
Over the NFL’s storied history, there have been punters who elevated the position and became true masters of their craft. Here, we rank the 15 best punters in NFL history, considering their statistics, consistency, impact, and legacy.
15. Craig Hentrich
Craig Hentrich was one of the most versatile punters the league has ever seen, excelling not only in punting but also in handling kickoff and field goal duties when needed. A two-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion, Hentrich’s reliability helped him earn a long career with the Packers and Titans.
14. Pat McAfee
While Pat McAfee’s NFL career was relatively short, his impact was undeniable. Known for his booming leg and magnetic personality, McAfee was a two-time Pro Bowler and a one-time All-Pro during his eight seasons with the Indianapolis Colts. Beyond his stats, McAfee helped elevate the visibility of punters and remains a fan favorite to this day.
13. Sean Landeta
A two-time Super Bowl champion and member of the NFL’s All-Decade Team for both the 1980s and 1990s, Landeta’s career longevity is remarkable. Over 22 seasons, Landeta became one of the most dependable punters in NFL history, finishing with 1,401 career punts, the second-most all-time.
12. Tom Tupa
Tom Tupa was a versatile athlete who played as both a quarterback and punter during his career. Despite his dual-role beginnings, his punting prowess stood out. Tupa’s precision and reliability earned him a Pro Bowl nod in 1999, making him one of the most unique punters to ever play the game.
11. Bryan Anger
Bryan Anger may not yet have the career longevity of some on this list, but his precision and ability to pin opponents inside the 20-yard line have made him a standout in the modern era. His punting average consistently ranks among the NFL’s best.
10. Ray Guy
You might be surprised to see Ray Guy outside the top 10, but this ranking reflects a modern understanding of the position. That said, Guy’s legacy is unmatched as the first punter inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. A three-time Super Bowl champion with the Raiders, Guy’s ability to change the game was unprecedented.
9. Dustin Colquitt
Coming from a family of punters, Dustin Colquitt has been one of the most consistent punters in NFL history. Known for his high hang times and directional punting, Colquitt made two Pro Bowls and was a key contributor during his time with the Kansas City Chiefs.
8. Andy Lee
Andy Lee has been one of the steadiest punters of the modern era, with a career spanning two decades. His three Pro Bowl selections and multiple All-Pro honors highlight his ability to flip the field and help his team win the battle for field position.
7. Jerrel Wilson
One of the pioneers of the position, Jerrel Wilson played for the Kansas City Chiefs from 1963 to 1978 and was known as “Thunderfoot” for his powerful punts. A three-time AFL All-Star and three-time Pro Bowler, Wilson set the standard for punters in the AFL and NFL.
6. Darren Bennett
An Australian rules footballer turned NFL punter, Darren Bennett brought a rugby-style punting technique that revolutionized the game. A two-time Pro Bowler and member of the NFL 1990s All-Decade Team, Bennett’s innovation and consistency cemented his legacy.
5. Thomas Morstead
Known for his clutch performances and elite placement, Thomas Morstead is one of the most reliable punters in NFL history. He played a critical role in the New Orleans Saints’ Super Bowl XLIV victory, delivering the iconic onside kick to start the second half.
4. Johnny Hekker
Hekker’s combination of power, precision, and versatility makes him one of the greatest punters ever. A four-time All-Pro and Super Bowl champion, Hekker is known for his ability to pin opponents deep and execute trick plays, redefining what a punter can do.
3. Reggie Roby
Reggie Roby brought a unique style to punting, with a booming leg and an incredibly high punt trajectory. A three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, Roby’s contributions went beyond the field, paving the way for future generations of punters.
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2. Jeff Feagles
Jeff Feagles’ 22-year career speaks to his durability and consistency. Known for his directional punting, Feagles was a two-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion with the New York Giants. His mastery of pinning opponents inside the 20 was unparalleled.
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1. Shane Lechler
It’s impossible to ignore Shane Lechler’s statistical dominance and sustained excellence. A generational talent, Lechler’s seven Pro Bowls and six All-Pro selections cement his place as the greatest punter in NFL history.
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