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Patriots’ All-Pro Labeled One of NFL’s Top Special Teams Players

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nelson Hubbell | Last updated Jun 19, 2025 2:20 PM ET

The New England Patriots struggled defensively for much of last season, but their special teams units actually played pretty well. That is in part because of safety Brenden Schooler, who showed out as a gunner on punt coverage.

Schooler was recognized at the end of last season with a Pro Bowl nod and first-team All-Pro status. The 28-year-old out of Texas went undrafted in 2022, but made enough of a mark on the Patriots to land a spot on the 53-man roster ever since.

ESPN's Bill Barnwell is recognizing Schooler as the best gunner in the NFL, which is no surprise after seeing his accolades.

"The 28-year-old was unblockable at times on punt duties last season," Barnwell said. "He played a significant role in helping the Patriots upset the Bengals in the opener with his coverage work. He's also an excellent blocker when called upon to do so."

Schooler's ability to impact the game on defense was shown in a Week 18 win over the Buffalo Bills, where he registered his only two career sacks, placing him fourth overall on a team that struggled to find sacks last season.

Barnwell heaped praise on the safety/gunner, who helped the Patriots become one of the best punt coverage units in the league last season, after a horrible 2023 campaign that ended in Bill Belichick's firing.

"Schooler is one of the few Patriots to come out of 2024 looking like he would have fit in during New England's dynasty," Barnwell said.

Schooler has a chance to build on his impressive season last year with what should be an improved roster across the board.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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