The Washington Huskies' special teams unit is undergoing significant transformations for the upcoming 2026 season. After a challenging initial year under Head Coach Jedd Fisch, which saw improvements from a notably poor 2024 season, the team is now facing a substantial roster turnover. While the 2025 season brought better kickoff coverage and more reliable kicking, inconsistencies in punting and return plays highlighted areas for further development. With several key players moving on, the Huskies are looking to new talent to solidify their special teams.
Washington Huskies Special Teams: A Comprehensive Overview of 2026 Roster Changes
In a significant shift for the Washington Huskies' special teams, the team is set to debut a largely new lineup in 2026. The pivotal role of kicker, previously held by the reliable Grady Gross, will see new competition. Gross, who famously secured a scholarship after his game-winning field goal against Oregon in 2023, finished his collegiate career with a commendable 75% field goal success rate and a perfect record on extra points, despite a brief slump in his junior year. His consistent presence will be deeply missed.
Kickoff specialist Ethan Moczulski, instrumental in improving the team's kickoff coverage by frequently landing kicks in the end zone, has also departed, transferring back to Illinois after one season on Montlake. His ability significantly reduced the number of returns the coverage team had to manage, a stark contrast to the previous season's struggles.
The return game is another area witnessing extensive changes. Adam Mohammed and Jonah Coleman, the leading kick-off returners, along with Denzel Boston, the primary punt returner, have all left the program. This means the Huskies must identify entirely new players to fill these crucial roles.
Amidst these departures, only a few players remain from the previous special teams lineup. Long snapper Ryan Kean is back for his third season, providing a stable presence. Punter Luke Dunne is still on the roster, though his less-than-stellar performance in 2025 has led to the recruitment of new talent in the transfer portal. Dezmen Roebuck and DB Rayshawn Clark, who both saw limited action as punt returners, are expected to contend for starting spots in the return game.
The most anticipated additions are in the kicking department. Tyler Robles, a transfer from Texas State and a second-team All-Sun Belt selection last year, is the likely candidate to take over placekicking duties. Robles boasts an impressive 21-of-23 field goal record and a nearly perfect 53-of-54 on extra points from the previous season. Additionally, freshman CJ Wallace, rated as the #11 kicking prospect nationally by On3, joins the team from St. John Bosco in California, adding depth and future potential.
For punting, Hunter Green, a Kirkland native, returns home after stints at Northern Colorado and San Diego State, where he showcased a powerful leg. Green is expected to challenge Dunne for the starting punter position. The kickoff specialist role remains open, with Robles, Wallace, and Green all vying for the opportunity.
As spring and fall practices unfold, the exact lineup for the Huskies' special teams will become clearer. It is highly probable that Robles will handle placekicking and Green will manage punting. Robles is also a strong contender for the kickoff specialist role. Dunne may still find a place as the team's holder. The return game will likely see Clark and Roebuck as initial punt returners, while Quaid Carr, Brian Bonner, Jordan Washington, and potentially even Elijah Durr and Mason James, could emerge as kick return options.
The wholesale changes in the Washington Huskies' special teams unit underscore a clear commitment to improving this critical phase of the game. The influx of new talent, particularly experienced transfers and highly-rated freshmen, signals an intent to build a more consistent and impactful special teams presence. It will be fascinating to observe how these new players integrate and elevate the team's performance in the upcoming season. This strategic rebuilding highlights the coaching staff's proactive approach to addressing past weaknesses and maximizing every aspect of the game.
