A New Era for Tiger Special Teams
The 2026 Mizzou Tigers special teams unit is shaping up to be a focal point of the upcoming season, blending proven veterans with fresh talent. Kicker Blake Craig returns after a Week 1 injury in 2025 that sidelined him, bringing a renewed sense of consistency after a shaky 2024 campaign.
John Papuchis, the newly hired special teams coordinator, arrives with a résumé that includes stints at Florida State and other Big 12 programs. His experience is expected to bring structure and discipline to a unit that has struggled with inconsistency in recent years.
Long snappers Brett Le Blanc and Henry Crosby, both preseason All‑SEC second‑team selections, anchor the core of the unit. Depth options include Sean Gross and John Butcher, with Butcher posting a 37.33‑yard average in 2024, while Mark Shenouda adds further reliability after a strong high‑school pedigree.
Punter Brunno Reus, a five‑star prospect, will handle both punting and holding duties. Though his limited game experience adds an element of uncertainty, his potential is undeniable. Backup punters include Mark Shenouda, who brings a solid pedigree from his high school days.
Return specialists DeMarion Fowlkes lead the Tigers with a 23.3‑yard average on kickoff returns, while Naeshaun Montgomery and Chris Graves Jr. provide additional options after excelling in high school. Their contributions aim to improve field position and spark momentum.
The unit has not been without challenges. A missed field goal at Vanderbilt and a failed fake punt against Alabama highlighted inconsistencies last season. Head coach John Papuchis, tasked with ironing out those kinks, emphasizes precision and adaptability.
Beyond the roster, the special teams storyline reflects a broader narrative of transition. With a new coordinator, a returning kicker coming off injury, and a punter stepping into a larger role, the Tigers hope to turn a historically volatile area into a reliable asset as they prepare for the 2026 campaign.