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Long snapper
Long snapper
Long snapper
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A long snapper (91, foreground) practicing field goal snaps with his position coach (background)
Diagram of a punt formation, the long snapper is indicated by the blue "DS"
In the traditional or "cup" punt formation, the long snapper is the center of the interior line (#58 in blue)
Traditional field goal formation with the long snapper in the center

In gridiron football, the long snapper (or deep snapper) is a center on special teams whose duty is to snap the football over a longer distance, typically around 15 yards during punts, and 7–8 yards during field goals and conversion attempts.

Overview

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During field goal and point after touchdown attempts, the snap is received by the holder, typically 7–8 yards away. During punts, the snap is delivered to the punter from 13 to 15 yards away. Following a punt snap, the snapper often executes a blocking assignment and then must cover the kick by running downfield and attempting to stop the opposing team's punt returner from advancing the ball in the opposite direction. If the punt goes uncaught, it is the snapper's responsibility to make sure the ball does not enter the end zone or bounce backward resulting in loss of yards. The majority of snappers at the highest levels of competition are specialized, meaning that they uniquely play the position of snapper, or have limited responsibilities elsewhere.

A good punt snap should hit the target—the punter's hands at the abdomen or waistline—between .65 and .75 seconds[1] and with a tight spiral for easy handling. A "bad snap" is an off-target snap which causes the delay or failure of a kick or forces the punter into some other potentially compromising situation.

Long snapper was not always a dedicated position, often filled by a lineman who was not getting playing time. Over time the position's value increased and teams have trained, recruited, and even offered scholarships to true long snappers.[2][3]

In the NCAA

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College rules are such that any of the 11 players on the punting team are allowed to proceed downfield at any time once the play has begun (unlike the NFL where only 2 players, the left and right gunners, are allowed to pass the line of scrimmage before the ball has been kicked). This results in many teams employing a "spread punt" or "rugby-style" scheme designed to maximize downfield coverage and limit returners from making larger gains the other way after receiving the ball.

In the NCAA, defensive players are not able to line up within the shoulder length frame of the long snapper.[4] Defensive players who play opposite of the long snapper are also not allowed to initiate contact with the long snapper until 1 second after the ball has been snapped.[5] These rules were created to protect the long snapper, as they are in a compromised position with their head usually down and unprotected.

In the NFL

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Unlike college, NFL rules do not provide for a set period of time after the snap before the long snapper can be engaged by the defense. However, no defensive player can line up directly in front of the long snapper when the offense is in a kick formation. Officials generally enforce this rule through verbal admonishment to an offending player prior to the snap. If the defensive lineman moves into a legal position before the snap, no penalty flag is thrown.

Before specialization, the long snapper often was a player who primarily played another position, mostly assumed to be backup centers because they perform regular snap duties to quarterbacks, and also to quarterbacks positioned further out in a shotgun formation. However, a recent example would be Allen Aldridge, who started at linebacker for the Detroit Lions and also served as the team's long snapper.[6] Buccaneers tight end Dave Moore spent the final three seasons of his career as the team's long snapper while regularly appearing on offense. This allows the team to dress another non-specialist player. Now, every team in the NFL has a specialized long snapper, a trend born on the Washington Redskins in 1971, where head coach and general manager George Allen made George Burman the first modern long snapper—someone whose roster spot was based on the long snap, and not other positions.[7]

Long snappers are usually among the least-known players in the NFL, rarely appearing on trading cards, because of their highly specialized and relatively invisible role on the field. No player is in the Hall of Fame as a long snapper, and they are rarely drafted, instead acquired as undrafted free agents, with a few exceptions:

Importance of the position

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Despite their anonymity, a team lacking a skilled long snapper can be seriously undermined. A famous example of this was on January 5, 2003, during the 2002 wild card playoff game between the San Francisco 49ers and New York Giants. During the regular season, the Giants suffered missed field goals due to the lack of an experienced long snapper, and signed Trey Junkin out of retirement to be the snapper for the playoff game. Junkin botched a snap on a field goal attempt that could have won the game for the Giants, who had led 38–14 at one point in the game.[14] Brad St. Louis of the Cincinnati Bengals was another long snapper who, besides having already botched two snaps in clutch situations in 2005 (wild card play-off game against the eventual champions Pittsburgh Steelers) and 2006, gained even bigger notoriety in 2009, when he delivered five bad snaps on either field goal or extra point attempts (leading to missed, aborted or blocked kicks) in the first five games of the season, which led to the then ten-year veteran being released from the team.

In 2008, it was the Pittsburgh Steelers that had long snapper problems. During an October 26, 2008 game against the New York Giants, the team's regular long snapper, Greg Warren, was injured with what was eventually revealed to be a season-ending torn ACL. Linebacker James Harrison, who had served in 2004 as the long snapper for the Rhein Fire of NFL Europe, volunteered to replace Warren. In the fourth quarter, Harrison's first and only snap sailed over punter Mitch Berger's head and through the end zone for a safety. This tied the score and gave the Giants good field position on the ensuing kick, resulting in the go-ahead touchdown late in the game.[15] Warren sustained a second ACL tear in December 2009, though this occurred on the last play of a December 20 game against the Green Bay Packers, giving the Steelers adequate time to sign replacement Jared Retkofsky, who had also been signed to replace Warren after his injury in 2008.

In 2012, Raiders' long snapper Jon Condo was injured and was backed up by Travis Goethel, a linebacker for a game against the San Diego Chargers. On two occasions during the game, punter Shane Lechler was unable to handle snaps that had bounced prior to reaching him. On another attempt, Lechler took his position much closer to the line of scrimmage than is normal for a punter, so as to decrease the distance Goethel needed to accurately snap the ball. Though the snap was adequate, the decreased distance resulted in a blocked punt.

In the Cincinnati Bengals' 2022 season opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bengals' long snapper Clark Harris suffered a biceps injury, forcing backup tight end Mitchell Wilcox to have to perform long snapping duties in Harris's stead. What would have been a game-winning extra point conversion for the Bengals as the game clock expired was blocked, forcing the game to go to overtime. In the overtime period, for what would have been a game-winning field goal for the Bengals, the snap was high, resulting in the field goal attempt missing wide right. The Bengals would go on to lose the game to the Steelers.[16]

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Long snapper

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from Grokipedia
The long snapper is a specialized player on an team's special teams unit, serving as the center who snaps the ball over distances of 7 to 15 yards to the holder for field goals and extra points or to the punter for punts, while also contributing to blocking and coverage duties following the snap. This position emerged in the early 1970s as teams began dedicating players exclusively to long snaps, with Washington Redskins coach George Allen employing George Burman as the first full-time long snapper in 1971, shifting away from relying on regular centers for these tasks. By the mid-1980s, the role had evolved further with players like emphasizing specialized training, leading to greater emphasis on precision and speed in snaps. Today, every team employs a long snapper, though the position is rarely filled through the draft, with most players entering as undrafted free agents due to its niche demands. The long snapper's role is critical for game outcomes, as accurate and rapid snaps—typically delivered in 1.3 to 2 seconds—prevent turnovers that could shift , while their subsequent blocking helps protect the kicker or punter. Essential skills include a firm grip for generating a tight spiral, composure under high-pressure situations, and the physicality for downfield coverage, often honed through drills simulating live game scenarios. Recognition of the position's value grew in the with eligibility starting in 2004 and official honors introduced in 2020, highlighting players like Morgan Cox and for their reliability over long careers.

Role in American Football

Primary Responsibilities

The long snapper serves as a specialized on a football team's special teams unit, primarily responsible for delivering the ball to the holder during and extra point attempts or to the punter during punts. For and extra points, the snap is typically executed over a distance of 7-8 yards to allow the holder to catch and place the ball efficiently for the kicker. In punt situations, the snap travels 13-15 yards to the punter, who requires the ball to arrive quickly to maximize hang time and distance. The ideal snap time for punts falls between 0.65 and 0.75 seconds from release to reception, enabling the punter to set up and execute without disruption from defensive pressure. Accuracy in snapping is paramount, with the ball delivered at a consistent waist height for catchability and featuring a tight spiral rotation to minimize wobbling and ensure a clean grip. Following the snap, the long snapper immediately transitions to blocking, engaging defensive rushers to shield the kicker, punter, or holder from penetration that could block the kick or cause injury. On punts, this extends to downfield coverage, where the snapper sprints to contribute to tackling the returner and preventing big gains. Poor snaps can result in fumbles or mishandled catches, leading to turnovers that shift field position dramatically and often determine game outcomes by gifting the opposing team scoring opportunities or momentum. Over time, the position has evolved from being handled by regular centers to dedicated specialists, underscoring its precision demands.

Comparison to Other Positions

The long snapper position differs significantly from the offensive , primarily in the mechanics and distance of the snap. While centers typically deliver short snaps—ranging from direct handoffs under to 5-yard passes with a lobbed and no spiral—long snappers execute longer, spiraled throws of 7-8 yards for field goals and extra points or 15 yards for punts, requiring a specialized grip with the laces away from the target for speed and accuracy, often completing the snap in under 0.8 seconds. This demands distinct and practice, as centers focus on line protection and defensive reads post-snap, whereas long snappers immediately transition to aggressive blocking against rushing defenders. In contrast to holders and punters, who receive the snap, the long snapper's role extends beyond delivery to include immediate downfield engagement. Holders catch the ball and position it for kickers on field goals or extra points, prioritizing stability over athletic pursuit, while punters receive the snap and execute kicks for distance or placement, focusing on leg strength and timing. Long snappers, however, must block aggressively after the snap to protect the punter or holder, often engaging in tackles or coverage downfield, blending lineman duties with special teams mobility. The position's lower visibility stems from limited usage, with long snappers typically involved in 5-10 snaps per game—primarily punts, field goals, and extra points—compared to over 50 snaps for starting centers in offensive plays. This scarcity necessitates specialized recruitment, often from athletic backgrounds like linebackers, rather than traditional offensive linemen. Physically, long snappers average around 6'2" to 6'3" in and 240-250 pounds, favoring a stockier build for leverage and speed in coverage, unlike the taller, heavier centers at approximately 6'4" and 300+ pounds optimized for interior line blocking. Historically, the role evolved from multi-purpose players such as quarterbacks or linebackers handling long snaps in the mid-20th century, toward dedicated specialists by the and 1980s, with pioneers like George Burman and the 1981 draft selection of Todd Thomas marking the shift to position-specific expertise in the .

Techniques and Execution

Snapping Fundamentals

The long snapper begins in a , positioning the feet shoulder-width apart with toes pointed straight ahead, knees bent to form a "Z" shape for explosive power, and the non-dominant hand placed on the ground between the feet while the dominant hand grips the . This setup distributes weight evenly across the insteps, ankles, knees, and hips, with the back kept flat and the head positioned up to maintain visibility of the defense. Grip techniques emphasize control and spin, with the dominant hand (power hand) placed over the laces—index knuckle across the seam, middle and ring knuckles between the second and third laces, across the bottom seam, and thumb forming a "V" for stability—while the guide hand supports underneath, along the seam, and other fingers close for balance. The laces are oriented away from the punter or holder to facilitate a clean catch, and a sharp snap imparts a tight spiral for accuracy and speed during the motion. Release rely on coordinated drive and to generate , with the arms extending continuously through the legs toward the target, aiming for chest height on the receiver in a tight spiral. University-level long snappers exhibit greater extension and lower release angles compared to high school players, contributing to higher overall ball . Elite snaps can reach speeds of 40-52 mph, with the ball arriving at the punter or holder in approximately 0.65-0.8 seconds depending on distance. Training drills prioritize consistency through repetitive practice, such as the underhand pass drill at 8-10 yards to build and strength for spiral generation, the one-hand pass drill to refine grip and speed, and live snaps at 10-15 yards to simulate pressure while measuring and accuracy. These exercises help reduce error rates by focusing on technique under , targeting sub-0.7-second snap times and minimal deviations in placement. Common faults include over-rotation, where the hands and arms spread outward instead of staying aligned, leading to wobbly spirals; this is corrected by emphasizing target focus and keeping elbows tight during release. Low snaps often result from insufficient hip drive or a downward hand finish, which can be addressed by maintaining a flat back and directing hands straight back through the legs.

Blocking and Downfield Coverage

In punt and formations, the long snapper plays a critical role in blocking rushers immediately after the snap to protect the kicker or punter. In and extra point attempts, the long snapper typically engages in man-blocking schemes, using leverage to seal off interior rushers targeting the middle of the line, often coordinating with adjacent linemen or wings to pick off edge threats. This involves a rapid transition from the snapping stance, where the player must explode backward into a blocking position within 0.7-1.0 seconds to maintain integrity. In contrast, punt can vary by scheme; traditional man protections assign the long snapper a specific defender (often the "4" technique rusher), while zone schemes emphasize area responsibility, allowing the snapper to double-team with upbacks or shift to seal gaps based on defensive movement. The physical demands of this transition require exceptional agility and lower-body strength, as long snappers must pivot from a low, head-down snap to engaging 300-pound defenders. Professional long snappers often demonstrate this through Combine benchmarks, such as times around 4.8-5.0 seconds for speed in pursuit and recovery, and performances of 20-30 repetitions at 225 pounds to sustain blocking leverage against -caliber athletes. For instance, in shield punt schemes, the long snapper may forgo initial blocking altogether, immediately releasing downfield after the snap to join coverage, relying on shield blockers to handle interior pressure while prioritizing a "string-pull" pursuit angle toward the . This tactical flexibility—man versus zone—allows teams to adapt to opponent rushes, with the snapper's quick footwork essential to avoiding penetration that could block the kick. Downfield coverage further tests the long snapper's athleticism, as they sprint 40-50 yards to converge on punt returns, focusing on disciplined angles to force the returner toward the sidelines and limit yardage. long snapper Thomas Fletcher describes this phase as "get[ting] out in coverage" after brief blocking, emphasizing the need to track the ball carrier like being "tied by a string" to enable tackles by the coverage unit. Effective pursuit involves maintaining speed post-block, often in with upbacks, to collapse the return lane and occasionally contribute to tackles by the coverage unit. These responsibilities expose long snappers to significant risks, particularly blindside hits from unblocked rushers during the vulnerable post-snap transition. In 2014, long snapper Danny Aiken was leveled by a defender in a manner that violated player safety rules prohibiting forcible head or neck contact on snappers, leaving him prone but allowing him to recover and continue playing that season. Common injuries from such impacts include concussions, strains, and sprains due to the awkward body positioning and high-speed collisions, with recovery often involving 4-6 weeks of rehab followed by gradual return-to-play protocols. long snapper Jon Condo, for example, suffered a while pursuing downfield on a recovery in 2015 but returned to full duty after targeted strengthening, highlighting the position's emphasis on resilience training.

Equipment and Player Safety

Specialized Gear

Long snappers utilize enhanced hand and finger padding, often through specialized lineman gloves featuring reinforced knuckles and impact-resistant padding on the back of the hand, to mitigate injuries from the forceful snap motion and subsequent blocking duties. These gloves provide a consistent grip and tactile feedback, as exemplified by NFL long snapper , who has worn them since college to ensure uniform ball feel across varying conditions, including cold weather. Helmet modifications for long snappers typically include standard NFL-approved models. Post-2010 equipment evolutions emphasizing player safety include soft-shell helmet covers like Guardian Caps, introduced in NFL training camps in 2022 and permitted in regular-season games starting in 2024, offering further impact absorption tailored to vulnerable positions such as long snapping. Knee braces and thigh pads are essential for long snappers, who engage in blocking after the snap, with braces providing prophylactic support against major knee injuries like MCL tears. A retrospective analysis of NFL offensive linemen from 2014 to 2020 found that those using prophylactic knee braces experienced a significantly lower rate of major knee injuries (0.013 per player versus 0.049 for non-bracers), without compromising performance metrics such as snap counts or penalties. Thigh pads for this position are often bulkier than those for skill players, offering extended coverage to absorb lateral impacts during downfield engagements. The official football, used for long snaps, features a cover designed for optimal grip, with pebbled surfaces and raised laces to facilitate precise handling under pressure; these specifications ensure consistency for the approximately 15-yard snap required on punts and field goals. In NCAA play, similar footballs are mandated, though training variants with varied weights help build snapping accuracy. Additionally, soft-shell covers like Guardian Caps, introduced in NFL training camps around and permitted in regular-season games starting in , offer further impact absorption tailored to vulnerable positions such as long snapping, complementing regulatory protections like the one-second no-contact rule for snappers in the NCAA.

Protective Rules in NCAA and NFL

In the NCAA, protective rules for long snappers emphasize pre- and post-snap safeguards during scrimmage kick formations, such as punts and field goals. Defenders within one yard of the must align with their entire body outside the snapper's shoulders to prevent direct over-the-center positioning. Additionally, no defensive player may initiate contact with the snapper until one second has elapsed after the snap, providing a brief buffer while the snapper is in a vulnerable, head-down posture. In the , similar alignment restrictions apply, requiring any defender within one yard of the to position their body entirely outside the snapper's shoulder pads at the snap, with violations penalized as illegal formation (5 yards). Unlike the NCAA, there is no mandatory one-second post-snap buffer for contact, though long snappers are classified as players during the snap, subjecting premature or excessive hits to roughing penalties. These rules, formalized in , aim to mitigate head and neck trauma risks inherent to the position. Enforcement in both leagues includes on-field penalties, with potential for fines or ejections in flagrant cases; for instance, the NFL fined Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jerry Tillery $15,167 in 2024 for striking a long snapper deemed defenseless. Long snappers experience among the lowest positional ankle injury rates (e.g., 37.5% involvement at the NFL Combine from 2009-2015, compared to 60.3% for offensive linemen). The NCAA's rules prioritize amateur athlete safety through stricter temporal buffers, reflecting developmental concerns, while the NFL's focus on alignment and defenseless player status balances protection with professional competitive flow. As of 2025, NCAA rules include amendments stripping snapper protections if the snapper aligns as an eligible end-of-line receiver during scrimmage kick plays, allowing defensive alignment directly over them to curb deceptive plays while maintaining core safeguards.

Historical Development

Origins in College Football

Long snaps for punts in originated in the late alongside the formalization of punting, which was adapted from rugby rules established by the Intercollegiate Football Association in 1876. Initially, punts were executed from behind the after the introduction of downs in 1880, with snapping the to the , who then handed or tossed it to the fullback for the kick; by the late 1890s, teams began snapping directly to the fullback to streamline the play. These long snaps, typically 5 to 7 yards, were handled by regular centers or occasionally ends in certain formations, as the position required no specialized training beyond basic line play. During the 1930s and 1950s, the rise of spread offenses and conservative strategies amplified punt frequency, as low-scoring games prioritized field position over aggressive drives. This saw ad-hoc long snaps performed by versatile players, such as reserve offensive linemen or tight ends, who doubled in multiple roles due to limited substitution rules that restricted dedicated specialists. Punt formations, including short punt and spread variants, became common, but snaps remained a secondary duty, often resulting in inconsistent execution amid the era's emphasis on run-heavy, possession-based play. The 1960s marked a pivotal shift toward specialization in special teams in , driven by rule changes that facilitated dedicated roles. The adoption of free substitution allowed unlimited player entries, enabling teams to deploy specific athletes for special teams without compromising offensive or defensive lines. Concurrently, adjustments to hash marks—widened to 20 yards from the sidelines in 1947—increased attempts by centering the ball more favorably, thus heightening the demand for precise long snaps on placement kicks and punts. Dedicated long snappers became more common in during the 1980s and 1990s, with specialized recruiting emerging in the early 2000s. Prior to 1971, non-specialist long snaps exhibited notably higher error rates, with historical accounts documenting frequent botches that led to turnovers or lost field position; for instance, pre-specialization eras saw mishandled punts contribute to low success rates in special teams plays, as versatile linemen lacked focused training. These issues underscored the need for dedicated roles, paving the way for professional adoption in the shortly thereafter.

Emergence in the NFL

The emergence of the dedicated long snapper position in the marked a significant in special teams strategy, beginning with a pivotal milestone in 1971. Washington Redskins head coach George Allen, known for his innovative approach to roster construction, designated George Burman as the league's first full-time long snapper, transitioning him from a utility role to exclusively handling long snaps for punts and field goals. This move created a specialized roster spot, emphasizing reliability in a task previously managed by regular centers, and set a for other teams seeking to minimize errors in high-pressure situations. By the and , the position's importance grew as teams increasingly allocated dedicated roster spots to long snappers, spurred by high-profile failures that underscored the risks of non-specialists. Notable incidents, such as the multiple errant long snaps by center during the 1991 Thanksgiving Day game against the —which contributed to missed field goals and a 27-17 loss—highlighted the need for precision and led to widespread adoption of specialists across the league. During this era, most teams employed full-time long snappers to enhance special teams consistency, with early examples including the drafting Todd Thomas in 1981 as one of the first dedicated to the role. The 2000s brought further standardization, as long snappers secured longer contracts and greater recognition, reflecting their integral role in team operations. The , for instance, relied on for 16 consecutive seasons from 1998 to 2013, providing unwavering stability in long snapping duties. This period also saw rising contracts for specialists, with Kendall Gammon earning the distinction of the first selection as a long snapper in 2004, affirming the position's professional legitimacy. The NFL's , implemented in 1994, amplified the appeal of long snappers as cost-effective niches, allowing teams to dedicate a roster spot to a player with a relatively modest hit while avoiding the volatility of makeshift arrangements. By , elite long snappers commanded annual salaries of $1 to $2 million, a fraction of what star players earn, enabling efficient amid constraints. Recent trends underscore the position's accessibility, with undrafted free agents achieving notable success in training camps; for example, Hogan Hatten earned a spot on the ' 53-man roster as a in 2024, and Austin Brinkman became the starting long snapper for the Texans after going undrafted in .

Long Snappers in College Football

NCAA Rules and Strategies

In NCAA football, long snappers operate under specific rules designed to protect them during scrimmage kick formations, such as punts and field goals. Defensive linemen are prohibited from aligning within one yard of the snapper or initiating primary contact against a single offensive lineman in these setups, ensuring a buffer zone that allows the snapper to execute without immediate disruption. Additionally, no defensive player may contact the snapper until one second has elapsed after the snap, provided the snapper is not positioned at the end of the line; violations result in a 15-yard penalty and an automatic first down. These protections stem from the snapper's vulnerable position, with head down and body exposed, and apply specifically when the formation signals an obvious intent to kick, exempting the team from the general requirement of at least five players numbered 50-79 on the line of scrimmage (Rule 6-3-13); if the snapper is at the end of the line, standard protections do not apply (Rule 9-1-14). Formation strategies in heavily favor the spread punt, where the long snapper aligns in the center of a seven-man line with guards positioned approximately two yards away and up to four "gunners" (personal protectors) split wide to maximize coverage. Unlike the , NCAA rules permit all 11 offensive players, including the snapper, to release downfield immediately upon the snap without restriction, enabling the snapper to contribute as an extra blocker or tackler on returns. This setup enhances territorial advantage by flooding the coverage area, limiting return opportunities; teams employing spread punts often see improved net punting averages due to the added personnel downfield. Tactically, long snappers adapt to hybrid roles in trick plays, where they may become eligible receivers or execute unconventional to deceive defenses, such as in fake punts that exploit their positioning. Snap quality directly influences outcomes, as consistent, accurate allow punters to achieve optimal hang time (typically 4.5-5 seconds), reducing average punt return yards by facilitating better coverage; poor , conversely, can lead to mishandled punts and returns exceeding 10 yards on average. For the 2024-2025 seasons, NCAA updates clarified scrimmage formations (Rule 2-16-10), prohibiting alignments within the snapper's frame except for the kicker or holder, and enhanced snapper protections under Rule 9-1-14, with provisions that eligible snappers at the line's end lose standard immunities. Video review under Rule 12 now more readily scrutinizes potential targeting fouls against snappers, allowing referees to overturn calls post-review for greater accuracy.

Recruitment and Training Programs

Colleges identify long snapper prospects primarily through specialized high school camps and showcases, where performance in snapping drills and athletic testing determines recruitment interest. Organizations like Professional Camps host national tours twice a year to evaluate high school kickers, punters, and long snappers, providing direct exposure to college coaches by ranking participants based on snap accuracy, tightness, and overall execution. For instance, 2025 national long snapper ratings highlight top prospects such as Freeman, Mulhern, and Farrow, who demonstrated strong camp performances including average snap times around 0.74 seconds and times under 5.0 seconds. emphasizes metrics like punt snap times of 0.65-0.70 seconds and /extra point snaps at 0.25 seconds, alongside speed tests such as the to assess downfield coverage potential. Training regimens for aspiring long snappers are year-round and multifaceted, prioritizing flexibility, strength, and technique to build consistency under pressure. Programs incorporate upper body and core exercises, such as modified lat pulldowns and work with ankle weights, to enhance snap velocity and control, while flexibility drills target hip and shoulder mobility for efficient mechanics. In the 2025 recruiting class, evaluations stress all-around skills, including the ability to maintain snap accuracy after fatigue-inducing reps, often measured in camp settings with 10-12 pressured snaps. These regimens evolve from high school multi-role participation to specialized focus, with coaches like those at Special Teams University emphasizing repeatable movements like flat-back positioning and body control to minimize errors. Select college programs feature dedicated specialization for long snappers, supported by position-specific coaches who refine skills through scrimmage-like blocking reps and fatigue simulations. At the , the legacy of former Gators long snapper Drew Ferris exemplifies this approach; Ferris, a five-star recruit who played from 2012-2015, now trains the next generation in , focusing on mechanics honed during his college tenure. Such programs evaluate recruits on snap consistency under game-like conditions, including blocking assignments in practice, to ensure reliability in high-stakes scenarios. The transition from high school to presents challenges for long snappers, who often shift from versatile roles like linebacker or to full-time specialization, requiring adaptation to intensified training volumes. is a core emphasis, with programs promoting and proper mechanics to reduce overuse risks in shoulders and hips, as early specialization in youth athletes correlates with higher rates without diversified conditioning. Coaches address this by integrating recovery-focused drills and monitoring snap reps to build resilience, helping prospects like those from camps navigate the physical demands of college-level play.

Long Snappers in the NFL

Professional Rules and Challenges

In the , long snappers operate under specific alignment rules during punt and formations to ensure their safety. Defensive players within one yard of the must position their entire body outside the long snapper's shoulder pads at the snap, preventing any defender from lining up directly over the snapper. This rule, implemented in , addresses the vulnerable position of the long snapper, who snaps with their head down and lacks immediate blocking support. Additionally, during punt coverage, long snappers must navigate fair catch interference penalties, which result in a 15-yard loss if they contact a who has signaled for a ; this restriction heightens the precision required in downfield pursuits to avoid costly flags. The professional level presents amplified challenges compared to , primarily due to the NFL's superior athleticism and speed, which expose long snappers to harder, more frequent hits without post-snap protection. Unlike centers in standard offensive sets, long snappers receive no blindside blocking after the snap, making them prime targets for unblocked rushers in the faster pro game, where defenders close gaps more rapidly than in college. This physicality demands exceptional mental resilience and speed from long snappers, who must immediately transition from snapping to covering kicks downfield amid aggressive pursuit. Roster spots for long snappers are highly competitive and limited, with most entering as undrafted free agents rather than through the draft, as the position rarely garners selections—nine long snappers have been drafted since 2000, including Julian Ashby by the in the . Teams typically carry just one dedicated long snapper on the 53-man roster, forcing players to outperform veterans or versatile backups who can also snap in emergencies, such as tight ends or linebackers. Securing a spot often hinges on demonstrating reliability in high-pressure snaps and coverage drills, with undrafted rookies vying against incumbents amid constant evaluation for multi-role utility. Injuries underscore the fragility of the position, prompting enhanced depth strategies in recent years. The 2022 biceps tear suffered by long snapper during their season opener led to his placement on injured reserve and the immediate promotion of a replacement, exposing vulnerabilities in special teams continuity. This incident influenced teams to bolster long snapper depth charts, as seen in 2025 when the [Los Angeles Chargers](/page/Los Angeles_Chargers) placed Josh Harris on injured reserve after a preseason injury and quickly elevated options to maintain stability. Such protocols now emphasize carrying emergency snappers or signing veterans promptly to mitigate disruptions from the position's injury risks. Pro Bowl recognition for long snappers remains exceedingly rare, reflecting the niche and undervalued nature of the role, with selections only beginning in 2004 and no player exceeding two career nods. The lack of quantifiable stats beyond snap accuracy—coupled with limited visibility—means honors depend heavily on peer votes for consistent performance in an otherwise obscure specialty, as evidenced by just two long snappers named to the 2025 rosters.

Importance to Team Success

The long snapper's role in the carries significant game-altering potential, as a single botched snap can derail critical plays and cost s victories in high-stakes situations. In the 2003 NFC Wild Card playoff game, veteran long snapper delivered an errant snap on a potential 41-yard game-winning attempt for the against the , resulting in a desperate pass that fell incomplete and eliminating the Giants from the postseason. Similarly, during the 1993 AFC Wild Card game between the and , an errant long snap led to holder Greg Montgomery bobbling the ball on a 31-yard try, contributing to the Oilers' collapse in one of the 's most famous comebacks. These incidents highlight how inaccuracies can shift momentum, prevent scoring opportunities, and alter playoff outcomes, underscoring the position's understated but pivotal influence on . Accurate long snaps directly enhance field position by enabling punters and holders to execute without disruption, thereby maximizing punt distances and yardage to pin opponents deep in their territory. While comprehensive league-wide statistics on snap accuracy's precise impact remain limited, reliable snaps support average gross punt distances of around 45 yards, with botched attempts often resulting in lost yardage, blocked kicks, or turnovers that compromise defensive positioning. This reliability affects win probabilities by improving starting field position on subsequent drives, as teams with consistent special teams units gain a measurable edge in close games. Economically, the position's value has grown, with the average NFL long snapper salary reaching approximately $1.07 million in the 2024-25 season, reflecting teams' recognition of its importance through multi-year contracts and performance incentives for flawless execution. Many contracts include bonuses tied to perfect seasons without botched snaps, emphasizing the premium placed on consistency. Since the , NFL teams have increasingly invested in dedicated long snappers as specialists, driven by rule changes enhancing player safety and the position's toward greater specialization, which has extended average careers to 7.5 years—nearly double the league-wide average of under four—while reducing position turnover through stable depth chart designations. This strategic focus fosters reliability in special teams units. Psychologically, the long snapper builds essential trust with the punter and holder through repetitive , creating a tight-knit dynamic crucial for high-pressure moments like late-game punts or field goals, where any hesitation can amplify errors under intense scrutiny.

Notable Long Snappers

College Standouts

In the late and early , Todd Thomas emerged as a pioneering figure among college long snappers at the , where his precise technique and reliability elevated the position's visibility. Thomas's contributions helped North Dakota's special teams maintain consistency during a competitive era, and his college performance directly influenced professional recognition, as he became the first player ever drafted primarily for long-snapping skills. A prominent modern example from the is Drew Ferris, who starred as the long snapper for the Gators after arriving as a highly touted 5-star recruit ranked 14th nationally by specialist evaluator Chris Rubio. Ferris started all 13 games in 2011 and appeared in 23 games across the 2013-2014 seasons, providing unflinching accuracy on and punt snaps that supported Florida's SEC campaigns, while earning academic honors for his on-field dependability. The Award, established in 2019 and presented annually to the nation's top collegiate long snapper for exemplary consistency and technique, highlights ongoing excellence in the position. The 2024 recipient was Underwood of the , recognized for his perfect execution in high-pressure situations throughout the Gators' season, including seamless integration with punter and kicker units. In 2025, Underwood was named to the award's watch list as the reigning winner. Standout long snappers have played pivotal roles in runs through special teams reliability, such as Thomas Fletcher at the , who contributed to the Crimson Tide's 2017 and 2020 titles by delivering error-free snaps that enabled successful field goals and punts in critical playoff games. Fletcher's work also facilitated key special teams plays, including recoveries that bolstered Alabama's defensive field position during championship seasons. Among 2025 recruiting prospects, Professional Camps rates several high school long snappers as elite talents, with 5.0-star standouts like Seth Freeman (committed to ) demonstrating professional-level speed and accuracy at national showcases, positioning them as future contributors. While the path to the is selective, numerous standouts successfully transition as undrafted free agents, exemplified by players like Fletcher, who parlayed Alabama's championship pedigree into a professional career with the .

NFL Veterans and Records

Patrick Mannelly holds the distinction as one of the NFL's premier long snapper longevity leaders, appearing in 245 games exclusively with the from 1998 to 2014, a franchise record that underscored his remarkable durability. Similarly, Jeff Robinson contributed across multiple teams as a long snapper in the later stages of his career, playing in 202 games from 1993 to 2009 with stints including the (1993–1996), (1997–2001 and 2005), (2002–2004), and (2007–2009). Among recent standouts, has anchored the ' special teams since 2009, logging over 200 games through the 2024 season despite a severe injury in 2022 that sidelined him for nearly the entire year. For the , undrafted Alex Ward emerged as a key contributor starting in 2023, handling long snapping duties through the 2025 season until November 2025, when the Rams waived Ward on November 9, 2025, and promoted veteran from the practice squad to the active roster amid special teams adjustments (as of November 2025). Notable records in the position highlight unflinching consistency, such as L.P. Ladouceur's 251 consecutive games as the ' long snapper from 2005 to 2020, a streak marked by exceptional reliability without reported errant snaps. Pro Bowl selections remain exceedingly rare for long snappers, with Brian Jennings earning nods after the 2004 and 2012 seasons during his 13-year tenure with the , recognizing his precision in over 1,300 snaps. In the 2024-2025 offseason, veteran Reid Ferguson solidified his status by signing a four-year contract extension with the Buffalo Bills in March 2025, keeping the team's longest-tenured player through 2028 and affirming his role in 200-plus games since 2013. The position's legacy extends beyond playing fields, as exemplified by Mannelly's influence through the Patrick Mannelly Award, established in 2019 to annually honor the nation's top collegiate long snapper and promote specialized training programs.

References

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