In what was a difficult season for the New England Patriots, there were some positive aspects to it. The special-teams proved to be an asset for the Patriots, and now two players are getting recognition.
Punter Jake Bailey and punt returner Gunner Olszewski earned spots on the Pro Football Writers of America All-NFL and All-AFC teams. The teams were announced on Monday.
Bailey made a huge impact for the Patriots, as he often put opposing offenses in difficult field position. He averaged 45.6 yards per punt this season, which led the NFL. Bailey was also named to the Pro Bowl
Olszewski proved to be a major asset on punt returns, as he averaged 17.3 yards per run back, which was a franchise record.
Throughout the course of the entire season, special teams remained consistent even as other positional units were struggling. Heading into the 2021 season, both Bailey and Olszewski should figure to be important pieces of the team once again.
