Chargers News: Special Teams Coordinator Relieved of Duty
The Chargers announced Wednesday that Special Teams Coordinator Kevin Spencer and the team have parted ways. An interesting time to make the decision for the Chargers as they enter the home stretch of the 2015 season. Spencer had been with the team since 2013 and before that spent time with both the Cardinal’s and Steeler’s organization.
Spencer was absent for a couple games earlier in the season but no details were ever released about it besides being called “personal reasons.” His health may have been a factor in missing the practices and games early on, and could be a reason the team has decided to part ways with him now.
In meeting, Chargers players notified today of decision to part ways with special teams coordinator Kevin Spencer. Health reasons cited.
— Michael Gehlken (@UTgehlken) December 2, 2015
The Chargers were one of the worst special team units this season. After signing return specialist Jacoby Jones in the offseason, the Chargers ranked dead last in return yards, and managed just 1 punt return yard in the first 8 weeks of the season.
Jacoby Jones was cut after just 8 games with the team, averaging just 21.4 yards per kickoff return. In 5 punt return attempts this season he has -4 yards.
In Sunday’s win over the Jaguars (snapping a six game losing streak), the Chargers had a crucial punt blocked at the end of the game that almost led to another heart-breaking loss. On the bright side, Javontee Herndon, who has filled in as punt returner since Jones was cut, had an 18 yard return. In 3 attempts so far he’s gained 33 yards already.
Replacing Spencer for the rest of the season will be Assistant Special Teams couch Craig Aukerman. He was also the one who filled in for Spencer when he missed those games for personal reasons earlier in the season. Let’s hope that there is no more blocked punts, muffed returns, and that we can actually get some positive yards in the return game.
The 3-8 Chargers will welcome Brock Osweiler and the 9-2 Denver Broncos to Qualcomm on Sunday.
Nick was born and raised in San Diego where he became a Chargers and Padres fan, attending numerous home games throughout the years with his dad. He then went on to attend college at the University of Arizona. There he earned his degree in marketing and now lives in San Francisco where he dreams of the the sunny beaches of San Diego. Bear Down.