Ryan Stonehouse is embarking on a new phase with the Miami Dolphins, driven by the allure of fresh prospects and the comfort of reconnecting with a trusted mentor. The punter noted that reuniting with his previous special teams coordinator was a significant factor in his choice, highlighting the importance of finding the right setting for professional development.
Having spent three seasons in the league, Stonehouse understands that a natural fit can greatly boost a player’s performance, and he is convinced that Miami offers the perfect stage for his talents to shine.
Achieving Record-Breaking Success in Tennessee
Stonehouse’s path in professional football has been characterized by outstanding accomplishments. Following a notable college career at Colorado State, he joined the Tennessee team as an undrafted free agent, aiming to compete with an established player.
His efforts quickly bore fruit, as he set a new record for gross punting average as a rookie, surpassing a long-standing record, while also achieving impressive statistics over his three-season stint. His career totals include over 200 punts amassing nearly 11,300 yards, with single-season punting averages ranking among the highest in league history. His performance cemented his status as a dynamic and dependable punter, transforming challenges into notable achievements.
Refining Skills for the Next Stage
While Stonehouse is recognized for his powerful leg and ability to change field position, he remains dedicated to honing his skills. Throughout his league tenure, he identified hang time as an area needing enhancement. Dedicating time in the offseason to improving hang time, he aims to deliver punts with increased precision and uniformity.
He also acknowledges that optimizing his kick placement is crucial to boosting his net punting average—a skill he is determined to master by fostering better communication and synergy with his teammates on the field. Building these connections during practice and training camps is central to his strategy for success.
Fostering Team Unity Behind Every Kick
Stonehouse underscores the significance of teamwork, particularly in forming reliable connections with coverage units that determine the ball’s final position. Past challenges with coordination and communication, especially following a significant injury, have fueled his commitment to cultivating a stronger, more unified special teams effort.
By collaborating closely with gunners and kickers, he intends to refine the timing and angles of his punts, ensuring every kick contributes strategically to the team’s overall performance.
Embracing this new opportunity with the Dolphins, Ryan Stonehouse is determined to elevate his game by combining his proven power with a sharpened focus on accuracy. His journey reflects both resilience and a drive for continuous enhancement as he navigates the ever-changing landscape of professional football.