We previously discussed that the Big Ten has some potential at kick returner, but no sure-fire star, but at punt returner there are enough studs to make this selection relatively hard. Projecting who is going to be the top stars on special teams is a tough task considering that most teams don’t want their regular offensive and defensive contributors to risk injury on kick or punt returns.
As expected an Ohio State Buckeye makes an appearance in the top spot and it should be no secret as they have a future first-rounder returning punts. An Iowa Hawkeye also makes an appearance as well as a new transfer at Northwestern. Let’s dive into the top three punt returners in the Big Ten for the 2023 season.
3
A.J. Henning, Northwestern
Why the Pick
A.J. Henning was a stud returner for Michigan last season but must have felt unhappy with his role as a receiver and elected to transfer to Northwestern. I expect Henning to remain a stud on special teams and to have a larger role on offense.
New Northwestern QB Ben Bryant and WR A.J. Henning getting some offseason work in before summer ball 🟣
(via @NxtLevelAtx) pic.twitter.com/7xtxUmSlda
— Bradley Locker (@Bradley_Locker) May 18, 2023
2
Cooper DeJean, Iowa
Why the Pick
Cooper DeJean was All-Big Ten as a cornerback last season as a sophomore and his athleticism was on display during his three-interception returns for touchdowns.
PLAYER SPOTLIGHT
Iowa DB Cooper DeJean is a top Big Ten DPOY candidate coming off of a five interception season. DeJean heads a scary Hawkeyes’ secondary and can easily work his way into becoming a first-round NFL selection next April.
Video via @cdejean23 @HawkeyeFootball pic.twitter.com/rzGaWBkK5w
— BIG Banter (@BIGBanterSports) July 12, 2023
1
Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State
Why the Pick
Emeka Egbuka is an elite receiver who will likely be selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft, but he also brings an incredible amount of field-flipping talent as a punt returner.
Where does Emeka Egbuka rank among the best wide receivers in college football? pic.twitter.com/3nRU8tHalx
— The Scarlet and Gray Podcast (@TheSG_Podcast) July 12, 2023
