Raiders' Punter AJ Cole Just Scratching the Surface

Originally posted on FanNation Raider Maven
By Ezekiel Trezevant IV | Last updated 11/11/23

The Las Vegas Raiders always knew they had one of the best kickers and one of the best punters, respectively, in the National Football League.

It has been tough to showcase both of their skills throughout what has been a rocky season so far, but Sunday against the New York Giants, Raiders punter AJ Cole reminded everyone of just how special of a talent he is.

"I always would say this, though even as a player and a coach, kickers and punters are unique, specialists are unique," Raiders Interim Coach Antonio Pierce said.

"They have their routine. You don't mess with them; they get their coffee at a certain time, they're going to get their coffee, and you find time to talk to him. And I think that's how we've been working. But listen, what AJ [Cole] did the other night, I don't think we talked enough about."

Sunday, Cole broke the NFL single-game record by averaging nearly 64 yards per punt.

"The NFL single-game record changed field position for us," Pierce said. "The cover unit was great, the protection was good, and just watch how those guys celebrated and understood what he accomplished.

"(Cole) was the player of the game for us. He's got the first spot out there in the parking lot, the first man in the building, first spot. So, obviously, we respect -- and our special teams have been our core. It's been the strength of our team in each and every game, giving us opportunities. But him and [Daniel] Carlson, they've done an outstanding job along with our kicking coverage units."

Cole shared that he didn't know he had broken the record until hours after the game.

"It was cool," Cole said. "I didn't know that I did it until a couple of hours after the game. I didn't know what the record was or who had it.

"In hindsight, it's really cool that I got to do it. I think it's a record that belongs in the Raiders' organization because of the history of punters here. I'm happy that I was able to get it."

Cole made it clear that he feels there is still room for improvement.

"There are plenty of things that I still feel like I can get better at and continue to improve on."

While his humbleness can be appreciated, the Raiders will surely continue to take the current version of Cole that has ranked at or near the top of many statistical categories for punters.

The Silver and Black will remain at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas to take on the New York Jets on Sunday, Nov. 12, at 8:20 p.m. EST/5:20 p.m. PST.

This article first appeared on FanNation Raider Maven and was syndicated with permission.

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