Bears punter Tory Taylor being considered for kickoffs as the rookie displays 'rare' talent

Alex Shapiro of NBC Sports Chicago reports that special teams coordinator Richard Hightower talked about Taylor’s talent.

Hightower called Taylor’s combination of touch and strength “rare” among punters.

Is Australia the land of the punter?

Taylor also hails from the land down under, Australia. This is significant because there has been an uptick in Australian punters in the NFL. Australian punters tend to have a slightly different kicking style that a traditional NFL punter. This is because of rugby, which is very popular in Australia. A punt in rugby is still a punt, it just looks a bit different on the kickers end.

One of the best punters in the league currently is from Australia, Michael Dickson. Dickson was drafted in the fifth round by the Seattle Seahawks back in 2018.

Dickson’s “rugby” inspired style of kicking made him a force to be reckoned with. Dickson is able to consistently put the Seahawks in favorable field position on defense.

Takeaway’s

If Tory Taylor is like his fellow countryman, Michael Dickson, the Bears made a great draft choice. Having a good punter can have significant impact on a teams chance at winning. Winning the battle for field position is half of the game. Special teams is a major part of football. Games are won and lost on special teams, especially in the post season.

Tory Taylor, aka “The Crocodile Punter,” may not have been a flashy draft pick. He may turn out to be a smart one.