Who Is Jeremiah Smith?
Jeremiah Smith is a name that has become synonymous with special teams dominance in the NFL. As a Pro Bowl kickoff specialist for the Miami Dolphins, Smith has transformed the way teams view kickoffs, turning a seemingly routine play into a strategic weapon. Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Smith’s journey to the NFL began on the fields of his local high school, where he first discovered his talent for kicking. His ability to send the ball deep into the end zone caught the eye of college recruiters, and he eventually earned a scholarship to the University of Alabama, where he set school records for touchbacks in a single season.
After entering the NFL in 2020, Smith quickly established himself as one of the league’s top kickoff specialists. His consistency and precision have made him a fan favorite in Miami, and coaches across the league often cite him as an example of how to master the art of the touchback.
Understanding the Touchback in Football
Before diving into Smith’s impact, it’s essential to clarify what a touchback in football entails. A touchback occurs when a kickoff or punt lands in the opposing team’s end zone and the receiving player chooses not to return it, or when a player catches the ball in the end zone and takes a knee to signal no return. For kickoffs specifically, the receiving team starts their offensive drive at the 25-yard line (per NFL rules adopted in 2016). This play is far from trivial—it’s a game-changer that shifts field position in favor of the kicking team, eliminating the risk of a big return and forcing the opponent to start their drive from a less favorable spot.
Jeremiah Smith’s Path to Touchback Dominance
Smith’s journey to becoming a touchback specialist is a story of relentless practice and attention to detail. Unlike many kickers who prioritize raw power, Smith focused early on mastering the three pillars of a successful touchback: distance, height, and accuracy. In high school, he spent hours every day kicking balls into an empty end zone, adjusting his stance and follow-through to find the perfect angle. His college coach at Alabama, Nick Saban, once noted: “Jeremiah doesn’t just kick the ball—he studies wind patterns, field conditions, and even the grass length to make tiny adjustments. That’s why he’s so consistent.”
After joining the Dolphins, Smith continued to refine his craft. He worked closely with special teams coordinator Danny Crossman to analyze video of every kick, identifying small tweaks to his technique. Whether it was shifting his weight slightly or changing the point of contact with the ball, Smith was always looking for ways to improve.
One of Smith’s most iconic moments came in the 2022 AFC Championship Game against the Kansas City Chiefs. With the Dolphins leading by three points late in the fourth quarter, Smith was called to kick off after a field goal. The Chiefs had one of the league’s top returners, Kadarius Toney, and a big return could have swung the game. Smith stepped up, kicked the ball high and deep into the end zone, and Toney knelt for a touchback. The Chiefs started their drive at the 25-yard line and couldn’t move far enough for a game-winning field goal, securing Miami’s spot in the Super Bowl.
The Strategic Value of Smith’s Touchbacks
Field position is often called the “hidden yardage” of football, and Smith’s touchbacks are a masterclass in controlling it. When Smith gets a touchback, he immediately puts the opposing offense at a disadvantage. Instead of starting their drive at the 35-yard line (or further if they had a good return), they start at the 25, meaning they have to gain more yards to reach field goal range or score a touchdown.
For the Dolphins’ defense, this is a game-changer. It reduces the number of times they have to defend a short field, lowering fatigue and increasing their chances of making a stop. Defensive end Cameron Wake once said: “Jeremiah’s touchbacks are like an extra defensive play. They take away the opponent’s best special teams weapon and let us do our job without worrying about a sudden score.”
Smith’s impact extends beyond the field. His consistency has forced opposing teams to adjust their game plans. Many now choose to fair catch kickoffs or start at the 25-yard line even if the ball isn’t in the end zone, just to avoid risking a fumble or a big hit. This shift shows how Smith has redefined the role of the kickoff specialist in the modern NFL.
Jeremiah Smith’s Legacy and Influence
Smith’s success has inspired a new generation of kickers. Young players across the country now practice his technique, hoping to replicate his touchback rate. Coaches are also placing more emphasis on touchback skills during recruitment, looking for players who can control field position like Smith does.
Off the field, Smith is equally influential. He runs a kicking camp for high school players, teaching them the fundamentals of kickoffs and touchbacks. He also donates a portion of his salary to youth football programs in underserved communities, giving kids the chance to play the sport he loves.
As Smith enters the prime of his career, there’s no doubt he will continue to dominate special teams. His ability to consistently get touchbacks has made him one of the Dolphins’ most valuable players, and his influence on the game will be felt for years to come.
Conclusion
Jeremiah Smith is more than just a kicker—he’s a strategic asset who has redefined the kickoff specialist role through his mastery of the touchback. His work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to perform under pressure have made him one of the best in the business. Whether he’s kicking in a regular-season game or a Super Bowl, Smith’s touchbacks are a key part of his team’s success. For fans and players alike, Jeremiah Smith is a reminder that even the most “routine” plays in football can have a profound impact on the outcome of a game. And as long as he’s on the field, opposing teams will think twice before trying to return one of his kicks.