Sam Martin Named AFC Special Teams Player of the Month

The Bills’ punter played a key role during the month of December

The recognition on special teams have continued for the Buffalo Bills. On the heels of wide receiver Deonte Harty winning the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week award, punter Sam Martin was chosen as the AFC Special Teams Player of the Month.

Martin has been excellent for the Bills, punting as well as anyone in the league during the last few week of the season. His punts have been key to pinning opponents deep in their own territory so that the Bills’ defense could go to work. Martin led the AFC in 64.75% of his punts being downed inside of the 20-yard line. Additionally, Martin led the conference in punts downed inside the 10-yard line (29.4%) and the five-yard line (11.8%).

Sam Martin had a huge punt against the Los Angeles Chargers that seemed to turn the tide of the game in Buffalo’s favor after the defense forced a three-and-out, letting the offense operate with a short field. As a whole, opponents were forced to start at the 19 yard line after a punt from Martin.

Sam Martin is the first punter for the Bills to earn the player of the week award since Brian Moorman in November of 2016.