Punt returners don’t get far against Chiefs

The NFL has stats for everything, including punt return coverage. And the Chiefs lead the NFL with opponents averaging 4.6 yards per return.

Punter Dustin Colquitt, adept at the booming kicks and ones that land inside the 20, is a big reason, and so is the coverage.

Rookie Demarcus Robinson has been a top-notch gunner who turned in a big play in last week’s 30-14 victory over the Colts. On a punt midway through the second quarter, Robinson’s coverage bothered return man Josh Ferguson, helping cause a muff. The Colts recovered, but Robinson used his speed again to disrupt a play.

“It starts with Dustin, hanging the ball up, putting it where we want it to be,” Chiefs special teams coach Dave Toub said. “The gunners are getting down there, forcing fair catches, forcing fumbles.

“Robinson hit the guy, perfect timing, caused the fumble. He’s been great. His effort has been outstanding. He’s a physical guy with great athletic skills. He’s really taken to it.”

This story was originally published November 3, 2016 at 4:22 PM with the headline "Punt returners don’t get far against Chiefs."