Our final set of rankings for the teams of the NFC West looks at their special teams units. Who comes out on top?
No. 4: Arizona Cardinals
Projected starters: Andy Lee (P), Zane Gonzalez (K), T.J. Logan/Pharoh Cooper/Damiere Byrd/Christian Kirk (returners)
The return game is a big question mark. With Kirk expected to take on a larger load offensively, we will see if he returns punts. The kick returner is unknown. Lee is great but Gonzalez is a big question mark at kicker. He showed promise late last season but he has done nothing in the league to warrant no competition in camp. They are betting on him.
No. 3: Seattle Seahawks
Projected lineup: Jason Myers (K), Michael Dickson (P), Rashaad Penny/J.D. McKissic (returners)
Tyler Lockett has likely seen his last days as a returner as he is expected to be the No. 1 receiver. Dickson is a stud as a punter and Myers was very good in New York last season. Can he repeat the success? The uncertainty in the return game and valuing a kicker more than a punter puts them behind the next team.
No. 2: San Francisco 49ers
Projected lineup: Robbie Gould (K), Mitch Wishnowsky (P), Dante Pettis/Richie James (returners)
Gould is simply one of the best in the game and might be the best. They are super excited about their punter and they have weapons in the return game.
No. 1: Los Angeles Rams
Projected lineup: Greg Zuerlein (K), Johnny Hekker (P), JoJo Natson (returner)
The kick returner is a little up in the air but the kicking unit is as solid as any. Hekker did not get Pro Bowl or All-Pro nods this year, but he is as good and as consistent as any.
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