The University of Georgia is poised to enter the 2026 college football season with a special teams unit that blends experience and fresh talent. Veteran kicker Peyton Woodring will anchor the kicking game for his final year, bringing a track record of reliability that includes 17 successful field goals out of 19 attempts last season and a long of 53 yards.
Punting duties will pass to Drew Miller, who enters his third year at Georgia after averaging 48 yards per punt in his sophomore campaign. Miller steps into the role vacated by All‑American Brett Thorson, and coaches expect his consistency to keep opponents pinned deep in their own territory.
The return game will be led by Sacovie White‑Helton, who is slated to handle punt returns after posting five returns for 57 yards in 2025. Talyn Taylor is projected to be the primary kickoff returner, having already shown flashes of explosiveness with a pair of returns in the spring game. Both players will be looking to add big‑play potential to the Bulldogs' field position strategy.
Long snapping duties will be taken over by William Snellings, who made two appearances in 2025 following the departure of Beau Gardner. Snellings brings a steady presence on special teams, and his development will be closely watched as the unit seeks continuity.
Key Players Shaping the Unit
Beyond the headline names, the Bulldogs also retain depth options such as Dwight Phillips, who will compete for kickoff return duties, and Zachariah Branch, who adds versatility to the return corps. The coaching staff has emphasized competition throughout the offseason, believing that a healthy push for starting spots will elevate the overall performance of the unit.
Overall, Georgia's special teams outlook for 2026 reflects a deliberate blend of proven experience and promising youth. With Peyton Woodring’s senior leadership, Drew Miller’s punting consistency, and the dynamic contributions of Sacovie White‑Helton, Talyn Taylor, and William Snellings, the Bulldogs aim to maintain their reputation as one of the SEC’s most reliable special‑teams programs.