Unveiling the Packers' New Special Teams Visionary
A Decade of Special Teams Leadership
The Packers prioritized experience in their search for a new special teams coordinator, and Cam Achord perfectly fits the bill. With nearly a decade dedicated to special teams coaching in the NFL, including four years as coordinator for the New England Patriots under the legendary Bill Belichick, Achord brings a proven track record. His prior roles as an assistant under Joe Judge in New England and Michael Ghobrial in New York further solidify his credentials, likely distinguishing him from other candidates who had less extensive coordinator experience.
The Rollercoaster Tenure with the Patriots
Achord's time as special teams coordinator for the New England Patriots began with remarkable success. Following Joe Judge's departure, Achord took the reins in 2020, leading the Patriots' special teams to top rankings by both Rick Gosselin's metrics and DVOA. However, the subsequent three seasons saw a decline in performance, with rankings dropping significantly by 2023. This mixed performance led to his non-retention by new Patriots coach Jerod Mayo in 2024, indicating a period of high achievement followed by challenges.
Mastering the Art of Return Specialists
Packers fans have reason to be optimistic about their punt return game with Achord at the helm. He has a history of developing elite returners, notably coaching Marcus Jones to a first-team All-Pro punt returner selection in 2022 and Gunner Olszewski to the same honor in 2020. Both players achieved punt return touchdowns during their All-Pro seasons, a feat the Packers haven't accomplished since 2014. Additionally, his teams have shown proficiency in kickoff returns, including several long touchdowns, suggesting a potential revitalization of Green Bay's return units.
Roots in Mississippi: A Coaching Journey
A native of Brookhaven, Mississippi, Achord's coaching journey began after playing free safety at Belhaven University. He started as a graduate assistant at Southern Mississippi in 2010, then held various positions at Southwest Mississippi Community College from 2013 to 2017. Although initially coaching offense, his connections through Joe Judge in Mississippi were instrumental in securing his first NFL assistant role with the New England Patriots in 2018, marking his entry into professional special teams coaching.
The "Caffeinated" Coach: A Burst of Energy
Known for his "high-energy" coaching style, Cam Achord's dynamic presence on the field is widely recognized. This energetic approach might be fueled by his admitted significant caffeine intake, as humorously noted during his time with the Patriots. Whether this vigor is naturally occurring or chemically enhanced, it promises an animated and focused leader for the Packers' special teams, ensuring a constant drive for improvement and intensity in their play.