Super Bowl 54: Drafting the best starting roster from 49ers and Chiefs
By Samuel Teets
Kicker: Harrison Butker (KC)
While Butker is a very talented kicker, San Francisco’s Robbie Gould didn’t provide much competition for this position. Once one of the best kickers in the NFL, Gould struggled during the first half of the season. He has not missed a kick since Week 14 but that did little to save his season’s numbers. Gould made 74.2 percent of his field-goal attempts in 2019.
In comparison, Butker made 89.5 percent of his field goal attempts. He led the NFL in field goal attempts and makes as well. Three of Butker’s four misses came on attempts of over 50 yards. In his first three seasons, Butker made 89.7 percent of his field goal attempts and 95.2 percent of his extra point tries.
Punter: Dustin Colquitt (KC)
San Francisco’s Mitch Wishnowsky played well in 2019 but the rookie still concedes this spot to Colquitt. Colquitt punted 48 times in 2019 for a total of 2,126 yards and 1,977 net yards. 21 of his punts landed within the 20-yard line and only three went for touchbacks.
Kick/Punt Returner: Mecole Hardman (KC)
The rookie second round pick played well as a receiver, but he stood out the most for his return abilities. With Hill moving into a permanent superstar position, Hardman took over Kansas City’s primary return duties.
Next. Super Bowl 54: Ranking the 20 best players playing in 49ers vs. Chiefs. dark
Hardman capitalized on his opportunities, returning 27 kicks for 704 yards (26.1 yards per return) and one touchdown. The speedster also returned 18 punts for 167 yards (9.3 yards per return). The Associated Press selected Hardman as a Second-Team All-Pro as a kick returner, and fans voted him to the Pro Bowl.