Projected Purdue depth chart: Special teams

Purdue will begin the 2023 season on September 2nd, when Fresno State visits West Lafayette. Here is GoldandBlack.com’s projected special teams depth chart.

Projected preseason special teams depth chart

First teamSecond teamPos. Name, ClassName, ClassK Ben Freehill, 5thSr.Caleb Krockover, RJr.P Jack Ansell, Jr.Brendan Cropsey, RJr.KR Deion Burks, RSo.Tyrone Tracy, 6thPR T.J. Sheffield, 5thSr.Marquis Wilson, 5thSr.

MORE: Projected offensive depth chart | Projected defensive depth chart | Purdue Football 2023 Training Camp Content Hub

NOTES

• Kicker: Ben Freehill has assumed command of the place-kicking. He has shown a strong leg in camp, with range extending to 50-plus yards. He’s also been accurate. Bottom line: Freehill looks like the real deal. Will he kick off? Or will Caleb Krockover or Julio Macias handle those duties? Macias is coming off hip surgery.

• Punter: Jack Ansell has progressed steadily since arriving from Australia in 2021 having never punted in a game. He is mastering consistency and has an array of punting techniques. This may be his best season yet. Brendan Cropsey is capable, if needed.

• Return men: Some intriguing options on punt and kickoff returns. Keep an eye on Deion Burks, one of the fastest and most explosive players on the roster. Could Tyrone Tracy be a difference-maker? T.J. Sheffield and Penn State transfer Marquis Wilson appear to be in line to help on run backs. If all else fails, the staff knows it always can turn to Andrew Sowinski to safely handle punt returns.

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