Texas Tech Unveils Dangerous Return Game Weapons, New Punter for 2026

Special teams coordinator Kenny Perry breaks down the Red Raiders' dynamic newcomers and rising talent ahead of the upcoming season.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 5:14pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a Texas Tech football player in the act of returning a kick or punt, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form representing the explosive energy and dynamic movement of the return.Texas Tech's dynamic return game weapons and new punter could give the Red Raiders a special teams edge in 2026.Lubbock Today

Texas Tech special teams coordinator Kenny Perry met with the media to discuss the team's return game weapons and new punter for the 2026 season. Perry highlighted several newcomers who have made an immediate impact in the return game, emphasizing their versatility and ability to contribute on special teams. He also stressed the importance of spring practice in building depth and evaluating young talent. Additionally, Perry expressed high expectations for new punter Will Karoll, who is set to replace the departed Jack Burgess.

Why it matters

Texas Tech's special teams have been a key part of the team's success in recent years, and the development of the return game and punting units will be crucial as the Red Raiders look to build on their achievements. The influx of talented newcomers and the emergence of a new starting punter could give Texas Tech a significant advantage in the field position battle and provide a spark in the return game.

The details

Perry highlighted several newcomers who have stood out in the return game this spring, including wide receiver Kenny Johnson. He praised their athleticism and versatility, noting that he can use them in both kick and punt return units, as well as on kick block teams. The coach also emphasized the value of spring practice in evaluating young talent and building depth on special teams, stressing the competitive nature of the sessions and the importance of players learning to practice at a high level. Additionally, Perry expressed high expectations for new punter Will Karoll, who is set to replace the departed Jack Burgess. He believes Karoll has a strong leg and the potential to be an NFL-caliber punter, while also praising his skills as a holder.

  • Texas Tech held spring practice in April 2026.
  • The 2026 season is set to kick off in the fall of 2026.

The players

Kenny Perry

Texas Tech's special teams coordinator and associate head coach, who met with the media to discuss the team's return game and new punter.

Joey McGuire

Texas Tech's head coach, who had previously mentioned the dynamic play of new wide receiver Kenny Johnson in the return game.

Kenny Johnson

A new wide receiver at Texas Tech who has impressed as a returner during spring practice.

Brice Pollock

A veteran player who has proven himself in college football and serves as an example for younger players on the Texas Tech roster.

Will Karoll

The new punter for Texas Tech, who is set to replace the departed Jack Burgess.

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What they’re saying

“They've been just what I thought they were going to be. We have a bunch of guys and I'm excited. I can move those guys around on kickoff return, and the other thing is, I can plug those guys in to block kicks too. Coach Juice (Justin Johnson) has done a great job with those guys since they've got here. It is going to be really fun using those guys in kick and punt return.”

— Kenny Perry, Texas Tech Special Teams Coordinator

“I love spring practice and the reason I love spring practice is because you got all these new guys, who you know nothing about. Coach McGuire makes practice competitive; you know we get after it, and I love it. You really get to put pressure on those guys and see who's going to make the bus (travel squad). We are creating competition right now and some of these young guys are realizing this isn't high school anymore.”

— Kenny Perry, Texas Tech Special Teams Coordinator

“He learned from Aussie, in Jack, you know Jack was great. Will's got a big leg and I think Will's going to be one of those dudes you are going to turn around and go, man we're going to see him kicking on Sundays. He is trying to figure it out like everybody else, that West Texas wind at this time of the year. It is not real favorable for the ol' punter. But he's learning and I think it is good for him. He is a great holder too, a better holder than I thought he was going to be, so I am excited about that.”

— Kenny Perry, Texas Tech Special Teams Coordinator

What’s next

Texas Tech will continue to evaluate its special teams units throughout the remainder of spring practice and into the summer as the team prepares for the 2026 season. The development of the return game and the new punter will be key focus areas as the Red Raiders look to build on their recent success.

The takeaway

Texas Tech's special teams have been a strength for the program, and the influx of talented newcomers and the emergence of a new starting punter could give the Red Raiders a significant advantage in the field position battle and provide a spark in the return game. The competitive nature of spring practice has allowed the coaching staff to evaluate young talent and build depth, setting the stage for an exciting 2026 season.