Hubbry Logo
Thomas MorsteadThomas MorsteadMain
Open search
Thomas Morstead
Community hub
Thomas Morstead
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Thomas Morstead
Thomas Morstead
Thomas Morstead
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Thomas James Morstead[1] (born March 8, 1986) is an American professional football punter and kickoff specialist for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the SMU Mustangs and was selected by the New Orleans Saints in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL draft. Morstead has also played for the New York Jets, Atlanta Falcons, and Miami Dolphins.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Morstead was born in Houston, Texas, and was raised in a nearby suburb of Pearland, Texas.[2] He has one brother, Patrick. Morstead attended Pearland High School and won varsity letters in football and basketball.[3][4] In football, Morstead received second-team All-District honors and was named the Brazoria County Special Teams MVP as a senior.[citation needed] He was also a member of the National Honor Society, adding Academic All-State honors.[5]

College career

[edit]

Morstead enrolled at Southern Methodist in 2004, turning down scholarship offers from Texas Christian, Rice, Texas and Missouri, but spent the season as a redshirt.[6][7] He was a member of the Conference USA's Academic Honor Roll in 2005, but never appeared in a game.[8] Morstead took over place-kicking and punting chores in 2006, earning All-Conference USA third-team honors. He led Conference USA with an average of 43.82 yards on 50 attempts, the best average by an SMU punter since Craig James averaged 44.9 yards in 1982.[9] Morstead made 13 of 18 field goals and 34 of 35 extra points for a total of 73 points. He recorded one solo tackle.[10]

As a sophomore, Morstead was a consensus All-Conference USA first-team pick and also gained league academic honors. He again led C-USA with a 44.65-yard average.[11] Morstead scored 82 points and set the league single-season record by making all 43 extra point attempts, as he also connected on 13 of 20 field goals.[12] Morstead concentrated more on directional punting in 2008. The All-Conference USA honorable mention averaged 41.78 yards on 59 punts. Morstead made 11 of 15 field goals, 29 of 30 extra points, and amassed 62 points.[13]

Professional career

[edit]
Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split Bench press
6 ft 4+1⁄4 in
(1.94 m)		 225 lb
(102 kg)		 32 in
(0.81 m)		 9 in
(0.23 m)		 4.88 s 1.79 s 2.91 s 19 reps
All values from NFL Combine[14][15][16]

New Orleans Saints

[edit]

Morstead was selected in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL draft with the 164th overall selection by the New Orleans Saints.[17] He was the second punter chosen in 2009, after Kevin Huber (by the Cincinnati Bengals).[18] Morstead beat out Glenn Pakulak for the Saints' punting job in 2009.[19] As a rookie, he recorded 58 punts for a 43.59 average.[20] Morstead played a role in the Saints' victory over the Indianapolis Colts in Super Bowl XLIV by executing an onside kick during the second half kickoff. The Saints recovered the ball and were able to convert that possession into a touchdown and a 13–10 lead. The Saints eventually won the game 31–17. He was the last active player from the Saints Super Bowl XLIV roster.[21] After the game, Morstead stated that while he was excited about executing the play, Morstead was also terrified knowing that if the play was not executed perfectly, the Colts would have likely recovered the ball with a shot of extending their 10–6 lead.[22]

In the 2010 season, Morstead had 57 punts for 2,618 yards and a 45.93 average.[23]

Morstead currently holds the record for most kickoff touchbacks in one game with nine, which he set in a 62–7 victory over the Colts on October 23, 2011.[24] He also holds the record for the most touchbacks in a single season, with 68 in 2011.[25] Morstead finished the 2011 season with 46 punts for 2,224 yards and a 48.35 average.[26]

In July 2012, the Saints signed Morstead to a six-year extension stated to be worth $21.9 million, making him the second highest paid punter in the league (after Shane Lechler of the Oakland Raiders).[25] He went on to have an outstanding season, leading the league (with a record-setting pace through 15 games) in net punting yardage,[27] and was elected to the Pro Bowl.[28] He had 74 punts for 3,707 yards and a 50.09 average in the 2012 season.[29]

In the 2013 season, Morstead finished with 61 punts for 2,859 yards and a 46.87 average.[30]

Morstead (left) serving as holder at the 2013 Pro Bowl

Before the 2014 season, Morstead was selected as the Saints' special teams captain.[31] He finished the 2014 season with 58 punts for 2,690 yards and a 46.38 average.[32]

Morstead retained the captain title in 2015.[33] In the 2015 season, Morstead had 56 punts for 2,551 yards and a 45.55 average.[34]

In the 2016 season, Morstead had 57 punts for 2,751 yards and a 48.26 average.[35]

In the 2017 season, Morstead finished with 60 punts for 2,822 yards and a 47.03 average.[36] In the NFC Divisional Round against the Minnesota Vikings, he tore cartilage in his rib cage after making a tackle in the first quarter but remained in the game. Nevertheless, Morstead was visibly hurt as he punted throughout the game.[37] The Vikings scored the winning touchdown in the closing seconds of the game, and both sides assumed that the contest was over with Saints players headed for the locker room. However, Morstead was the first player to return to the field for the extra point attempt.[38][39] Vikings' fans were impressed by the toughness and sportsmanship Morstead displayed in the eventual defeat, so a Vikings-dedicated Reddit group donated more than $140,000 to his charity in less than 24 hours, and Morstead presented the donations to the Children's Hospital of Minnesota.[40]

On March 16, 2018, Morstead signed a five-year contract extension with the Saints.[41] In the 2018 season, he punted 43 times for 1,996 yards and a 46.42 average.[42]

In Week 3 of the 2019 season, Morstead downed four of his six punts inside the 20-yard line during a 33–27 road victory over the Seattle Seahawks, earning him NFC Special Teams Player of the Week honors.[43] Morstead was later named NFC Special Teams Player of the Month for September.[44] Three weeks later, he pinned five of his six punts inside the 20-yard line with a long of 51 yards in a 13–6 road victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, earning him his second NFC Special Teams Player of the Week award of 2019.[45] Morstead finished the 2019 season with 60 punts for 2,770 yards and a 46.17 average.[46]

In Week 1 of the 2020 season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Morstead placed five of his six punts inside the 20-yard line during the 34–23 victory and was named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week for his performance.[47] In the 2020 season, Morstead finished with 62 punts for 2,674 yards and a 43.13 average.[48]

On March 4, 2021, the Saints released Morstead after 12 seasons.[49]

New York Jets

[edit]

On September 14, 2021, Morstead signed with the New York Jets[50] to fill in for the injured Braden Mann. He was released on November 8 after punting 23 times for 1,108 yards and a 46.1 average.[51]

Atlanta Falcons

[edit]

On November 23, 2021, Morstead signed with the Atlanta Falcons.[52]

In his Falcons debut in Week 12, Morstead downed three of his five punts inside the 20-yard line during the 21–14 road victory over the Jaguars, earning NFC Special Teams Player of the Week.[53] Morstead was also later named NFC Special Teams Player of the Month for December.[54] In the 2021 season, he punted 45 times for 2,123 yards and a 47.18 average.[55]

Miami Dolphins

[edit]

On April 8, 2022, Morstead signed with the Miami Dolphins.[56]

During a narrow Week 3 21–19 victory over the Buffalo Bills, Morstead inadvertently kicked a punt from the endzone into the buttocks of teammate Trent Sherfield, resulting in a safety. The play went viral, becoming known as the "Butt Punt". [57][58] Morstead finished the 2022 season with 61 punts for 2,828 yards and a 46.36 average.[59]

New York Jets (second stint)

[edit]

On April 7, 2023, Morstead re-signed with the Jets.[60]

During a Week 8 13–10 road victory over the New York Giants, Morstead had 11 punts, averaging 48.1 yards per punt, with the ball landing inside the five-yard line thrice.[61][62] He was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week for his performance.[63] Morstead finished the 2023 season with a 48.8 average and led the league in punts with 99 and punting yards with 4,831.[64]

On March 14, 2024, Morstead re-signed with the Jets.[65] He appeared in all 17 games, logging 63 punts for 2,972 yards and a 47.2 average.[66]

On May 13, 2025, following the signing of Kai Kroeger, Morstead was released by the Jets.[67]

San Francisco 49ers

[edit]

On May 28, 2025, Morstead signed with the San Francisco 49ers.[68] On August 26, he was waived as part of final roster cuts,[69] but was re-signed to the active roster the next day.[70]

NFL career statistics

[edit]
Legend
Won the Super Bowl
Led the league
Bold Career high

Regular season

[edit]
Year Team GP Punting
Punts Yds Avg Lng Blk
2009 NO 16 58 2,528 43.6 60 0
2010 NO 16 57 2,618 45.9 64 0
2011 NO 16 46 2,224 48.3 64 1
2012 NO 16 74 3,707 50.1 70 0
2013 NO 16 61 2,859 46.9 61 0
2014 NO 16 58 2,690 46.4 63 0
2015 NO 14 56 2,551 45.6 58 0
2016 NO 16 57 2,751 48.3 66 0
2017 NO 16 60 2,822 47.0 68 0
2018 NO 16 43 1,996 46.4 60 0
2019 NO 16 60 2,770 46.2 64 0
2020 NO 16 62 2,674 43.1 58 0
2021 NYJ 7 23 1,108 48.2 59 0
ATL 7 22 1,015 46.1 64 0
2022 MIA 17 61 2,828 46.4 66 0
2023 NYJ 17 99 4,831 48.8 62 0
2024 NYJ 17 63 2,972 47.2 75 0
2025 SF 17 44 1,919 43.6 55 0
Career 272 1,004 46,863 46.7 75 1

Postseason

[edit]
Year Team GP Punting
Punts Yds Avg Lng Blk
2009 NO 3 13 618 47.5 66 0
2010 NO 1 4 191 47.8 55 0
2011 NO 2 5 227 45.4 60 0
2013 NO 2 7 260 37.1 55 0
2017 NO 2 8 375 46.9 57 0
2018 NO 2 7 305 43.6 50 0
2019 NO 1 5 229 45.8 50 0
2020 NO 2 5 200 40.0 58 0
2022 MIA 1 6 262 43.7 52 0
2025 SF 2 4 154 38.5 51 0
Career 18 64 2,821 44.1 66 0

Personal life

[edit]

Morstead and his wife, Lauren, have five children.[71][72] In 2014, they created the charity What You Give Will Grow.[73][74][75] Morstead is a Catholic.[76][77]

Morstead co-wrote a book with Sean Jensen called "The Middle School Rules of Thomas Morstead."[78]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Thomas Morstead

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Thomas Morstead (born March 8, 1986) is an American football punter for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League (NFL). He stands 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighs 225 pounds. Morstead played college football at Southern Methodist University (SMU), where he majored in mechanical engineering and earned first-team All-Conference USA honors as a punter in 2007 and 2008. He was selected by the New Orleans Saints in the fifth round (164th overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft. Over his 17-season career, Morstead has played for the Saints (2009–2019, 2020), (2021, 2023–2024), (2021), (2022), and 49ers (2025). He earned a selection in 2012 and second-team honors that same year. A key contributor to the Saints' victory over the Indianapolis Colts in 2010, Morstead executed a surprise to open the second half, which was recovered by his teammate and provided crucial momentum. As of the 2025 season, he has punted 989 times for 46,244 yards, averaging 46.8 yards per punt.

Early years

Family and childhood

Thomas Morstead was born on March 8, 1986, in , , and raised in the suburban community of Pearland southeast of the city. He was born to John Morstead, a professional cyclist who grew up in after moving there at a young age and achieved notable success in international races, and Isobel Morstead (née Fenwick), who was born and raised in the small farming village of Beelsby in , . The couple met as teenagers in , where Isobel worked at a family strawberry stand and John was competing in cycling events; after earning degrees at and working in the oil industry, they settled in . Morstead has one younger brother, Patrick. Morstead's family placed a strong emphasis on athletics from an early age, with his father's demanding career serving as a primary influence on his development of discipline and resilience. As a , he frequently observed John endure grueling training and international competitions, which instilled lessons in voluntary physical sacrifice and that shaped his own approach to sports. His initial athletic pursuits centered on soccer, influenced by his mother's and annual family visits to Beelsby, where he engaged in the local sporting culture alongside relatives. The Morsteads' suburban life in Pearland, a close-knit near , further reinforced his work ethic through everyday routines and familial expectations, while the contrast of summers in rural highlighted values of perseverance and community involvement.

High school career

Thomas Morstead attended in , where he initially focused on soccer as his primary sport. As a small freshman weighing around 90 pounds, he briefly tried football but suffered a severe —breaking two bones—after his first game, prompting him to return to soccer, where he excelled as both a and forward, earning all-district honors. He also lettered in soccer and basketball during his high school years. By his senior year in 2005, Morstead had grown to 6-foot-4, and his coach, recognizing his powerful leg strength from soccer, encouraged him to switch to football as a punter and kicker. Despite having limited experience and playing time in football—only during his final year—he delivered impressive punts that drew attention from college scouts, including a walk-on opportunity at . That season, he earned second-team all-district honors and was named Brazoria County Special Teams MVP for his contributions. Morstead's academic achievements complemented his athletic talents, as he was a member of the and received Academic All-State honors, which helped secure an academic scholarship to college.

College career

Football at SMU

Thomas Morstead arrived at (SMU) in 2004 on an academic scholarship in and walked on to the football team as a punter and kicker, earning a spot on the roster after redshirting his freshman year without playing. He saw no game action as a redshirt freshman in 2005, focusing instead on development under special teams coach Dan Collins. By his sophomore season in 2006, Morstead emerged as the primary punter, handling 50 punts for 2,191 yards at an average of 43.8 yards per punt, including 17 inside the opponents' 20-yard line, while also serving as the placekicker with 13 of 18 field goals made (longest 50 yards) and 34 of 35 extra points. His performance earned him third-team All-Conference USA honors from the media and an honorable mention from the coaches, along with selection to the watch list. In 2007, as a junior, Morstead solidified his role, punting 57 times for 2,545 yards at a 44.6-yard average, with 21 punts inside the 20 and notable long kicks including a 72-yarder against , where he averaged 55.6 yards per punt. He continued kicking, converting 13 of 20 field goals and all 43 extra points, contributing to first-team All-Conference USA selections from both coaches and media. Morstead's consistency helped SMU improve its special teams, as he balanced punting duties with occasional placekicking to support the Mustangs' offense. His development emphasized touch and placement, reducing returns and boosting field position advantage. As a senior in 2008, Morstead shifted focus toward directional punting to enhance hang time and control, averaging 41.8 yards on 59 punts while downing 20 inside the 20-yard line with only three touchbacks, which propelled SMU to second nationally in net punting average. Early in the season, he led and ranked third nationally with a 48.15-yard gross average through initial games, earning a spot on the watch list and honorable mention All- recognition. He also handled kicking duties, making 11 of 15 field goals and 29 of 30 extra points. Key performances included strong directional efforts in pivotal games that aided SMU's turnaround season.

Academic background

Morstead majored in at SMU, maintaining a 3.55 GPA. He was named to the All-Academic Football Team in 2006 and earned spots on the C-USA Commissioner's Honor Roll multiple times. He graduated in 2009.

Professional career

New Orleans Saints

Thomas Morstead was selected by the in the fifth round, 164th overall, of the out of . As a , he appeared in all 16 regular-season games, recording 58 punts for 2,528 yards with a gross average of 43.6 yards per punt. Morstead also contributed significantly to the Saints' postseason run, including their 31–17 victory over the in , where he handled kickoff duties, executed a pivotal surprise to open the second half that the Saints recovered, and delivered the team's only punt of the game for 39 yards, pinning the Colts at their own 4-yard line. During his peak years from 2011 to 2014, Morstead established himself as one of the NFL's elite punters while anchoring the Saints' special teams unit. In 2012, he earned Second-Team honors after leading the league in net punting average (43.2 yards) and recording a career-high 74 punts for 3,707 yards with a gross average of 50.1 yards. The following year, in 2013, he was selected for the after posting 61 punts for 2,859 yards and a 46.9-yard average, helping the Saints rank among the top teams in special teams efficiency. Beyond traditional punting, Morstead played a versatile role in the Saints' aggressive special teams schemes under coordinator Greg McMahon, including executing successful fake punts—such as a 15-yard completion in a divisional playoff game against the —and participating in recoveries during playoff contests that aided New Orleans' momentum in high-stakes situations. Morstead's 12-season tenure with the Saints, spanning from 2009 to 2020, solidified his status as a franchise cornerstone on special teams. He appeared in 190 regular-season games, setting Saints records with 692 punts for 32,190 yards and a 46.5-yard gross average, while also ranking highly in net average (41.7 yards) and punts inside the 20-yard line. On March 4, 2021, the Saints released Morstead as part of salary cap management, ending his time with the team where he had become a fan favorite for his consistency and community involvement in New Orleans. By 2025, the Saints' punter position had experienced significant instability since Morstead's departure, cycling through four different starters in five years—including (2021–2022), (2023), Matthew Hayball (2024), and others like Kai Kroeger in 2025—amid ongoing roster turnover and performance inconsistencies that highlighted the void left by Morstead's reliability.

New York Jets (first stint)

Following his release from the in March 2021, veteran punter Thomas Morstead signed with the on September 14, 2021, to fill in for injured rookie and provide stability to the special teams unit during a challenging 0-1 start to the season. Morstead, who had established himself as a reliable performer with the Saints over 12 seasons including two selections, quickly adapted to the Jets' scheme under special teams coordinator , emphasizing directional punting to flip the field in games where the offense struggled. His integration came at a time when the Jets were rebuilding and facing defensive inconsistencies, making his role crucial in controlling field position against opponents. In his seven games with the Jets from Weeks 2 through 9, Morstead handled 23 punts for 1,108 yards, averaging 48.2 yards per punt with seven inside the 20-yard line, contributing to improved special teams efficiency amid the team's overall 2-7 record during that span. Notable performances included a 51.3-yard average on four punts with two inside the 20 against the in Week 5, helping limit the Falcons' starting field position, and a career-high 52.0-yard average on three punts versus the in Week 9. These efforts showcased his veteran precision and ability to perform under pressure, even as the Jets navigated injuries and a young roster. Morstead's stint ended on November 8, 2021, when the Jets released him as part of roster adjustments to reinstate the recovering , clearing space after the trade deadline and allowing the team to evaluate younger talent late in a rebuilding year. Despite the brevity of his time in New York, his contributions provided a steadying influence on special teams during a transitional period for the franchise.

Atlanta Falcons

After his release from the , Morstead signed with the on November 23, 2021. He appeared in the final seven games of the 2021 season, recording 22 punts for 1,015 yards with a 46.1-yard average and nine inside the 20-yard line. His performance earned him the NFC Special Teams Player of the Month award for December 2021, after averaging 48.8 yards per punt in that month's games. The released Morstead in March 2022 as part of offseason roster moves.

Miami Dolphins

Morstead signed a one-year contract with the as an unrestricted on April 8, 2022. He served as the team's primary punter for the entire 2022 season, appearing in all 17 games and recording 61 punts for 2,828 yards with a gross average of 46.4 yards and a net average of 40.6 yards, ranking sixth and eighth in the , respectively. Notable moments included a infamous "butt punt" in the wild-card playoff loss to the , where the ball inadvertently struck his buttocks during a rushed punt attempt. The Dolphins did not re-sign Morstead following the 2022 season.

New York Jets (second stint)

On April 7, 2023, Morstead signed a one-year contract with the , marking the beginning of his second stint with the team after a brief appearance in 2021. In the 2023 season, he appeared in all 17 games, handling punting duties with 99 punts for 4,831 yards, averaging 48.8 yards per punt, which ranked 10th in the . His performance earned him the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week award for Week 8 after a 13–10 victory over the , where he punted 11 times for 529 yards (48.1 average), including three punts downed inside the 5-yard line. Morstead re-signed with the Jets on March 14, 2024, to a two-year worth $5.1 million, including $2.21 million guaranteed and a $1 million signing bonus. During the 2024 season, he continued his reliable play across 17 games, recording 63 punts for 2,972 yards with a 47.2-yard average, while placing 19 punts inside the 20-yard line amid the team's competitive efforts in the . As a 16-year veteran, Morstead provided valuable leadership and mentorship to younger players, emphasizing consistency and team support in the locker room. Over his two seasons in the second stint, Morstead played in 34 games before the Jets released him on May 13, 2025, as part of roster adjustments under new regime leadership.

San Francisco 49ers

Following his release from the in May 2025, Morstead signed a one-year contract with the on May 28, 2025, agreeing to a base salary of $1,255,000. At age 39 and in his 17th season, the veteran punter was brought in to stabilize the special teams unit, which had underperformed the prior year, and he was released on August 26, 2025, and re-signed the next day amid final roster adjustments before the season opener. Through 10 games in the 2025 season (as of November 16), Morstead has handled 29 punts for 1,300 yards, averaging 44.8 yards per punt with a long of 54 yards, including 16 punts inside the opponent's 20-yard line (4th in the ). His performance has underscored his durability, having appeared in every game despite the physical demands of the position at his age, and facilitated a smooth adaptation to the 49ers' schemes under special teams coordinator , with whom Morstead had collaborated during his Jets tenure. Morstead's role has been pivotal for a 49ers special teams group supporting a 6-4 team record (as of ), enhancing field position in a defense-oriented system and bolstering playoff aspirations in the competitive NFC. The move carries added irony, as the former Saints staple and champion now contributes against one of New Orleans' longstanding NFC rivals.

Career statistics

Regular Season Punting Statistics

YearTeamGPntYdsAvgLngI20TBNet
2009NOR1658252843.66018436.0
2010NOR1657261845.96421638.4
2011NOR1646222448.36413443.1
2012NOR1674370750.17020643.2
2013NOR1661285946.96125542.3
2014NOR1658269046.46319542.9
2015NOR1456255145.65820440.7
2016NOR1657275148.36622542.4
2017NOR1660282247.06826242.2
2018NOR1643199646.46015443.2
2019NOR1660277046.26429143.1
2020NOR1662267443.15823241.7
20212TM1445212347.26418241.8
2022MIA1761282846.46628240.6
2023NYJ1799483148.86236841.8
2024NYJ1763297247.27520740.9
2025SFO1029130044.85415137.6
Career Totals: 265 games, 989 punts, 46,244 yards, 46.8 gross average, 75 longest, 368 inside the 20, 68 touchbacks, 40.8 net average.

Postseason

YearTeamGPntYdsAvgLngI20TBNet
2009NOR31361847.56600—
2010NOR1419147.85500—
2011NOR2522745.46000—
2013NOR2726037.15500—
2017NOR2837546.95700—
2018NOR2730543.65000—
2019NOR1522945.85000—
2020NOR2520040.05500—
2022MIA1626243.7521040.2
Career Totals: 16 games, 60 punts, 2,667 yards, 44.5 gross average, 66 longest, 1 inside the 20, 0 touchbacks.

Awards and honors

Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections

Thomas Morstead's collegiate success at laid the foundation for his professional accolades, where he earned multiple honors as a punter. As a junior in 2007, he was named first-team All- after leading the conference with a 44.6-yard punting average, while also receiving academic honors. In his senior year of 2008, Morstead secured first-team All- honors again, punting 59 times for 2,465 yards at a 41.8-yard average. These achievements highlighted his early prowess as a specialist, setting the stage for his career. Morstead's pinnacle NFL recognition came in 2012 with the New Orleans Saints, when he was selected to the —the only such honor of his career. This selection followed a standout season in which he averaged 50.1 yards per punt, his career high, contributing to his status as one of the league's elite punters. Complementing the Pro Bowl nod, Morstead earned Second-Team All-Pro honors in 2012, marking the first time a Saints punter received such recognition in franchise history. These honors underscored the rarity of and selections for punters, positions often overlooked in favor of offensive and defensive stars, yet they cemented Morstead's reputation as a premier specialist capable of game-changing performance. Despite consistent production across 17 professional seasons, Morstead received no further or accolades, emphasizing the exceptional nature of his 2012 campaign.

Player of the Week/Month awards

Throughout his career, Thomas Morstead has earned two NFC Special Teams Player of the Month awards, recognizing his exceptional punting over monthly periods. In September 2019, while with the , Morstead was named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Month after averaging 50.5 gross yards per punt over three games, with 11 of 17 punts landing inside the opponent's 20-yard line, significantly contributing to field position advantages in early-season victories. In December 2021, after signing midseason with the , he received the same honor for punting 11 times for 539 yards (49.0 gross average), including six inside the 20-yard line and a 64-yard long, helping stabilize the team's special teams during a challenging stretch. Morstead has also secured six NFC (and one AFC) Special Teams Player of the Week awards, highlighting standout individual game performances that flipped field position battles. These honors are distributed across three teams, underscoring his sustained excellence: five with the Saints (2009 Weeks 11 and 17; 2019 Weeks 3 and 6; 2020 Week 1), one with the Falcons (2021 Week 12), and one with the Jets (2023 Week 8, as AFC Special Teams Player of the Week). Notable examples include his 2019 Week 3 performance against the , where Morstead punted six times for 324 yards (54.0 gross average, 52.0 net average), pinning four inside the 20-yard line to limit Seattle's return game in a 33-27 Saints win. In his 2021 Week 12 debut with the Falcons against the , he recorded five punts for 224 yards (44.8 gross average), three inside the 20, aiding a 21-14 victory despite challenging conditions. Similarly, in the 2023 Week 8 Jets-Giants matchup at , Morstead delivered 11 punts for 529 yards (48.1 gross average) amid rainy weather, forcing the Giants to start drives at their 22-yard line on average and securing a 13-10 defensive win. These weekly accolades, alongside his monthly honors, demonstrate Morstead's ability to deliver high-impact punting consistently across franchises and varying game scenarios.

Personal life

Family

Thomas Morstead married his wife, Lauren Morstead (née Moore), in 2013 after meeting her during a family ski trip in in 1998 and reconnecting in college. The couple, both originally from Houston, Texas, welcomed their first child, son Maxwell, in April 2014 while Morstead was with the . Their family grew with the births of son Beckett in 2016, daughter Maggie in 2018, and daughter Rosalie in 2020, all during periods of relative stability in New Orleans. In May 2024, shortly after Morstead rejoined the , they had their fifth child, son Declan. Throughout Morstead's career, which has involved multiple team changes including stints with the , , and , Lauren has provided crucial support during transitions, often managing family logistics amid frequent relocations. The family established a permanent home base in New Orleans, building a modern Tudor-style house in Old Metairie's in 2019 with kid-friendly features like a dedicated playroom, mudroom cubbies, and a backyard pool to accommodate their growing household despite Morstead's travels. Early in parenthood, following Maxwell's birth, teammate and his wife gifted the Morsteads a video , which allowed Morstead to stay connected to his newborn during away games and practices. As of 2025, with Morstead signing a one-year deal with the in May to compete for the punting role, the family continues to adapt to his West Coast move while maintaining their roots in New Orleans, balancing professional demands with daily life for their five young children. Lauren's role as the family's anchor has remained consistent, helping navigate the uncertainties of late-career team shifts.

Philanthropy

In 2014, Thomas Morstead co-founded the What You Give Will Grow foundation with his wife, , to support , care for hospitalized children, and broader community causes in New Orleans and beyond. The foundation emphasizes aiding organizations, small businesses, artists, and musicians while fostering generosity in the "Who Dat Nation" fanbase. A notable example of the foundation's impact occurred in 2018, when fans donated $221,143 to support the Child Life Program at Children's Minnesota Hospital, inspired by Morstead's performance in a playoff game against their team. This contribution highlighted the foundation's role in pediatric care and community reciprocity. Morstead has also directed efforts toward New Orleans community recovery following , including support for local families and youth programs through foundation initiatives. Morstead's philanthropic recognition includes his nomination as the ' 2014 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year candidate, honoring his on-field excellence and off-field contributions to children's health and cancer support. Across his , he has participated in team-specific community programs, such as the Saints' annual "Saints Waiter" charity dinner benefiting the foundation, a sleep-out event with the for homeless youth via , and donations to -area causes following a 2018 playoff game against the Vikings while with the Saints. As of 2025, Morstead continues these efforts through the foundation's ongoing events and personal campaigns, including the "Punt for ALS" initiative with the Team Gleason Foundation, which raised over $101,000 to combat Lou Gehrig's disease, and his role as an American Heart Association Nation of Lifesavers ambassador promoting CPR training.

References

  1. https://www.49ers.com/team/players-roster/thomas-morstead/
  2. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/12701/thomas-morstead
  3. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MorsTh00.htm
  4. https://www.smu.edu/news/archives/2010/alumni-thomas-morstead-26jan2010
  5. https://smumustangs.com/news/2009/4/26/Morstead_Taken_In_NFL_Draft
  6. https://www.nfl.com/players/thomas-morstead/stats/career
  7. https://www.49ers.com/team/players-roster/thomas-morstead/situational/
  8. https://media.miamidolphins.com/wp-content/uploads/Morstead-Thomas-19.pdf
  9. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/an-oral-history-of-ambush-the-play-that-changed-super-bowl-xliv-16795410
  10. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28261593/inside-nfl-gutsiest-playcall-saints-super-bowl-xliv-onside-kick
  11. https://www.nola.com/sports/saints/thomas-morsteads-saintly-punting-career-began-in-an-english-village/article_cd0d3206-71e4-52ed-94f1-467d39ed39c0.html
  12. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/1416949/2019/12/02/fathers-families-and-faith-life-lessons-from-the-new-orleans-saints/
  13. https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/longtime-punter-thomas-morstead-hopes-his-remarkable-football-journey-inspires-others-to-pursue-their-dreams/
  14. https://www.myneworleans.com/thomas-morstead/
  15. https://www.espn.com/blog/new-orleans-saints/post/_/id/33231/how-saints-thomas-morstead-became-unlikely-star-of-a-childrens-book
  16. https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/other-sports/american-sports/nfl-new-york-jets-morstead-30736577
  17. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/photos/hometown-saints-with-thomas-morstead-pearland-texas
  18. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/bio-file-on-p-thomas-morstead-1087328
  19. https://www.theolympian.com/sports/article25247545.html
  20. https://www.nydailynews.com/2023/07/12/a-trip-to-familys-english-village-jumpstarted-jets-punter-thomas-morsteads-football-journey/
  21. https://smumustangs.com/sports/football/roster/thomas-morstead/1818
  22. https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/thomas-morstead-1.html
  23. https://conferenceusa.com/news/2008/1/17/FINAL_2007_C_USA_Football_Notebook.aspx
  24. https://smumustangs.com/news/2007/9/10/Morstead_Named_C_USA_Special_Teams_Player_Of_The_Week?path=football
  25. https://smumustangs.com/story.aspx?filename=Morstead_Named_To_Ray_Guy_Award_Watch_List&file_date=9-16-2008
  26. https://smumustangs.com/news/2006/11/27/Morstead_Named_To_Conference_USA_Football_All_Academic_Team.aspx
  27. https://www.nfl.com/prospects/thomas-morstead/32004d4f-5275-8512-839f-313ab30fb191
  28. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201002070clt.htm
  29. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/new-orleans-saints-jahri-evans-thomas-morstead-earn-associated-press-all-9357974
  30. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/jahri-evans-and-thomas-morstead-earn-2013-pro-bowl-honors-9202900
  31. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/new-orleans-saints-terminate-contract-punter-thomas-morstead-roster
  32. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/31004676/thomas-morstead-long-standout-new-orleans-saints-punter-released-12-seasons
  33. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4568308/lou-hedley
  34. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/4571597/matthew-hayball
  35. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/kai-kroeger-punter-new-orleans-saints-roster-nfl-2025-five-things-to-know
  36. https://www.si.com/nfl/jets/news/new-york-jets-sign-punter-thomas-morstead-to-fill-in-for-injured-braden-mann
  37. https://www.profootballrumors.com/2021/11/jets-to-release-p-thomas-morstead
  38. https://www.nfl.com/players/thomas-morstead/
  39. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MorsTh00/gamelog/2021/
  40. https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/jets-release-p-thomas-morstead
  41. https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/falcons-punter-moves-thomas-morstead-signed-to-active-roster-dom-maggio-joins-pr
  42. https://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/thomas-morstead-named-nfc-special-teams-player-of-the-month
  43. https://www.thephinsider.com/2022/4/8/23016548/miami-dolphins-free-agents-2022-thomas-morstead-signed
  44. https://www.si.com/nfl/dolphins/onsi/news/as-the-punters-turn-01jwbnqnxgz1
  45. https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/jets-sign-p-thomas-morstead
  46. https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/jets-thomas-morstead-afc-special-teams-player-of-the-week-11-1-2023
  47. https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/jets-re-sign-thomas-morstead-03-14-2024
  48. https://sports.yahoo.com/contract-details-jets-punter-thomas-141126811.html
  49. https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/03/15/jets-punter-thomas-morstead-new-contract/
  50. https://jetsxfactor.com/2025/01/16/ny-jets-vet-never-anything-like-this/
  51. https://www.newyorkjets.com/news/jets-sign-kai-kroeger-release-thomas-morstead-05-13-2025
  52. https://www.49ers.com/news/49ers-sign-p-thomas-morstead-and-lb-chazz-surratt
  53. https://nfltraderumors.co/49ers-re-sign-p-thomas-morstead/
  54. https://www.49ers.com/news/49ers-release-waive-and-make-roster-moves-on-a-list-of-players
  55. https://www.pff.com/nfl/players/thomas-morstead/5088
  56. https://www.ninersnation.com/2025/5/28/24438664/49ers-thomas-morstead-mitch-wishnowsky-special-teams
  57. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sfo/2025/gamelog
  58. https://www.wdsu.com/article/saints-fan-favorite-super-bowl-champion-thomas-morstead-signs-with-san-francisco-49ers/64904644
  59. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story?id=20437177
  60. https://www.nola.com/sports/saints/thomas-morstead-the-saints-decorated-and-beloved-punter-released-after-12-nfl-seasons/article_c92a63ae-5d0a-11eb-b444-0b863d1660bf.html
  61. https://saintswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/saints/2019/10/03/saints-thomas-morstead-special-teams-player-of-the-month-nfl-news/80625944007/
  62. https://www.si.com/nfl/falcons/news/thomas-morstead-player-month-new-york-jets-atlanta-award
  63. https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/thomas-morstead-is-recognized-as-afc-special-teams-player-of-the-week
  64. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/M/MorsTh00/gamelog/2019/
  65. https://www.nola.com/entertainment_life/thomas-and-lauren-morstead-at-home-comfortable-elegance-kid-friendly-spaces-and-one-great-bathtub/article_ce81d3de-aef6-11ec-9317-9bc2919dc777.html
  66. https://wgno.com/news/its-a-boy-meet-max-morstead-2/amp/
  67. https://www.essentiallysports.com/nfl-active-news-who-is-thomas-morsteads-wife-meet-jets-stars-partner-lauren-morstead/
  68. https://www.nj.com/sports/2024/05/jets-punter-welcomes-baby-no-5-year-after-switching-to-no-5-jersey.html
  69. https://www.nola.com/sports/saints/the-saints-released-thomas-morstead-10-months-ago-heres-how-he-ended-up-with-the/article_06afac86-7031-11ec-a484-67391fe6669e.html
  70. https://www.foxsports.com/stories/other/at-home-with-new-dad-saints-punter-thomas-morstead
  71. https://www.si.com/nfl/49ers/news/why-49ers-signed-punter-thomas-morstead
  72. https://bizneworleans.com/what-you-give-will-grow/
  73. https://www.smu.edu/ignited/news/events-programs/houston-area-mustangs/thomas-morstead-08
  74. https://www.facebook.com/wygwg6/
  75. https://www.espn.com/blog/nfcsouth/post/_/id/70988/thomas-morstead-delivers-check-in-overwhelming-return-trip-to-minnesota
  76. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/thomas-morstead-s-foundation-what-you-give-will-grow-gives-away-sno-bal-17114013
  77. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/news/thomas-morstead-nominated-for-walter-payton-man-of-the-year-award-14589908
  78. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/video/saints-players-join-thomas-morstead-for-annual-what-you-give-will-grow-dinner
  79. https://www.yahoo.com/news/dolphins-punter-thomas-morstead-spends-103002892.html
  80. https://www.neworleanssaints.com/video/thomas-morstead-gives-back-to-minneapolis-community-20340380
  81. https://www.cbs42.com/business/press-releases/ein-presswire/781086759/new-york-jets-punter-thomas-morstead-raises-over-101k-for-the-fight-against-lou-gehrigs-disease/
  82. https://newsroom.heart.org/local-news/san-francisco-49ers-player-urges-fans-to-join-nation-of-lifesavers-learn-lifesaving-cpr
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.