Kevin Harper U of Pittsburgh

On Friday and Saturday Kevin Harper (University of Pittsburgh) and his father Jay were in Scottsdale, Arizona for some One on One Kicking Lessons. Kevin is a red shirt freshmen kicker at the University of Pittsburgh and is looking to take over Conner Lee's kicking chores next year for the Panthers.

Kevin started his first lesson a little rough by doing some bad warm up drills that I believe give him bad muscle memory and effect his regular kicking technique.

Kevin set a state record 61 yard field goal in his hometown and has a strong leg. His father has taken him to several kicking camps and instructors but has not found anyone who can make him more consistent.

Jay googled my name after he heard about me on Sirius NFL Radio last fall and setup an appointment before spring practice starts.

Kevin was an excellent student and was a quick fix in most drills. In the photos above and below I am working fundamentals drills on foot position and transfer technique.

At the beginning of the first lesson Kevin was pushing and pulling his field goals. After the second lesson he was stripping them down the middle.

We moved to kickoffs at the end of the second lesson and once again Kevin started kicking much better than when he started the day before.



Kevin and his father were both very happy after the two days of One on One Kicking and Kickoff Lessons and said they wanted to come back later this summer.

Click to listen to Jay Harper's testimonial about his son's Kevin One on One Kicking Lessons with Coach Zauner.

It was a pleasure working with Kevin. He was not only a nice young man but was also very coach able and a quick fix on many of the adjustments we made. I wish him the best of luck next year with those Pittsburgh Panthers.

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LSU's Colt David & Brady Dalfrey

On Thursday and Friday two of LSU's Kicking Specialists were in Scottsdale, Arizona for some One on One Kicking and Punting Lessons. They both are graduating and trying to get ready for their pro day in March. Kicker, Colt David (left) and Punter Brady Dalfrey (right) are in the above photo. The weather once again was excellent and in the low 80's.

LSU's Brady Dalfrey caught my eye right away. After his warm up he launched a couple of booming punts that were 4.9 to 5.0 second hang times.

As you can see in the above photo Brady has excellent flexibility and extension. However, even though Brady was booming some big time punts I saw that his drop technique needed a tourniquet.

Brady has attended several kicking camps and has been in division 1 football for four years. It is really too bad that during his time in college, nobody has helped him or made him improve his drop technique or mechanics.

For two days we worked on Basic Fundamentals and my Drop Progression Drill. Drills that that I felt would help Brady become a more consistent punter. The road to success if you have a big leg is consistency.


In above photo Brady is working my drop progression drill.

When Brady actually dropped the ball rather than tossed the ball to his foot he hit some great (SNO) spiral nose over punts with regularity. Brady was making progress.

If he gets his drop right he has a good chance to be playing on Sundays. If he doesn't he will be watching T.V. on Sunday's with millions of other football fans.

At the end of the first session we worked on kickoffs. I must say he has a pretty good kickoff leg.

Click to listen to LSU's Brady Dalfreys Testimonial on Working with Coach Zauner:

I wish Brady the best of luck in March on his pro day and also in his pursuit of and NFL career.

Next Man Up is LSU's former Kicker, Colt David. Great Name!

LSU's Colt David started his One on One Kicking Lessons and I must say this young man also caught my eye with the pop, explosion and the trajectory he hit his first couple of balls.

He reminded me of last years One on One stand out student, Garrett Hartley. Garrett was from the U. of Oklahoma, and is now the current N.O. Saints Kicker. As a side note, Garrett will be in town on Sunday to work on his kickoff technique.

When I mentioned that to Colt, he said Garrett and him played and competed against each other in high school. He had that look of fiery competition in his eyes when I mentioned Garrett's name. I hoped he took my comments as a compliment.

As Colt kicked I asked questions and took some sequential camera shots to study his technique. After the first session we had a great video session in which I pointed out a couple of flaws. Colt agreed and we went to work the next day refining his technique.

In the above photo we worked on Colts target line and perfect triangle. His steps were a little inconsistent causing him to push or pull some of his kicks.

Last year Colt injured himself early in the season. Many times kickers after a ankle, hip or groin injury unknowingly change their swing or technique. Colt during the video session noticed he was not kicking the same as previous year. The eye in the sky never lies.

In the above photo we are working some drills to get Colt to kick up and through the ball and come to balance.

By the end of the second session Colt was kicking more consistently up and through the ball and skipping down field. However, I told him it is going to take time to do it naturally. Drill work and repetitions in front of a mirror would help him tremendously.

At the end of both sessions we worked on kickoffs. Colt did not kickoff last season because of his injury and wants to show NFL Scouts he can do it.

We ran out of time. However, both Colt and Brady said they wanted to come back as soon as possible to work on more fundamentals and technique.

Click below to listen to LSU's Colt Davids Testimonial on working with Coach Zauner:

I wish Colt the best of luck on his pro day in March and also in his pursuit of a job as a kicker in the NFL.

In the above photo with the the kicking specialists from LSU is my new assistant, James Wilhoit former University of Tennessee Kicker. There was some real jawing going on for two days.

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U of Pittsburgh Mark Estermyer

For the last two days Mark Estermyer, Long Snapper from the University of Pittsburgh was in Scottsdale, Arizona for two days of One on One Snapping Lessons.

Mark is ranked by the NFL Scouting Services as one of the best snappers coming out of college for this years NFL draft.

I first saw Mark practicing at the 2009 Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama. The day I saw Mark he was a little inconsistent. We talked after practice and I mentioned a couple of things to him. He and his agent decided to send Mark out to Scottsdale for some One on One Lessons.

During the first session we videotaped his technique from all angles and had an excellent video review. I noted that Mark had a couple of flaws in his technique and I addressed how we could fix them.

The second session we worked on a routine and drills that would help Mark refine his technique and make him more consistent and accurate. He was a quick fix.

In the photo above Mark is working my Elbow Thrust and Hands Drill.

In this photo Mark is working a Snap & Vertical Set Drill.

Next, we progressed to Snap, Protect and Coverage Drill.

During our field goal session we worked on the 'Perfect Laces Drill'. Once we figured out Mark's distance he was a machine. He hit 25 perfect laces in a row.

Mark was here training and trying to be the best he can be. He is here refining his skills to prepare for his Pro Day in March.

Mark was good and now is better. I saw some kicking specialists at the NFL Combine last week that think they are good but are not fundamentally sound.

The difference in making it to the NFL is not potential but performance. Some players just don't understand the level they need to perform at to make it in the NFL. Everyone needs to aspire to their highest level and do whatever it takes to get there.

Click below to listen to University of Pittsburgh's Mark Estermyer's testimonial on working a two day One on One Snapping Lesson with Coach Zauner.

It was a pleasure working with Mark and I wish him the best of luck at his Pro Day workout and in this year's upcoming NFL Draft.

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Russell Warrington's Lessons

On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, Russell Warrington was in Scottsdale, Arizona for three days of some One on One Punting Lessons. Russell is 29 years old and has aspirations of being an NFL punter.

He is driven to succeed and continually got better during our three day One on One Punting Lessons.

Russell at about 6'3 and 210 pounds, has the ideal body for a punter.

However, like most punters Russell needed a lot of work on fundamentals. I introduced my Drop Progression and One Step Drill. Russell worked hard on and off the field and improved.

Russell told me he had never been coached. He came to to me with some bad habits and he was bound and determined to work hard to get fundamentally sound. In the photo below we are working a none punting drill to emphasize leg extension a follow through.

By the end of the three day One on One Punting Lesson Russell was hitting more (SNO) spiral nose over punts to the power zone.


Click to listen to Russell Warrington's Testimonial on working with Coach Zauner:

Russell has now learned some drills to emphasize the fundamentals he needs to work on to get to the next level. My interest is to teach everyone coming here the proper fundamentals, drills, technique and training methods to get better.

I also try to educate them. that the road to the NFL is not an easy road. Hard work, dedication and fundamentals is the key to every one's success. Russell has all those qualities.

NFL Special Teams Coaches and Scouts have standards of performance. How Far, How High and How Accurate... that's the bottom line.

Russell now knows what he needs to do to improve and what numbers he needs to achieve to have a chance to get into an NFL training camp.

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Specialists from Northern Alabama

On Sunday and Monday I had two of the Blues Brothers look a likes here in Scottsdale, Arizona for some One on One Lessons. The two kicking specialists from Northern Alabama, Will Batson (Punter) and Kenny Spencer (Kicker) were here for two days of One on One Punting and Kicking Lessons. The weather both days was in the low 80's.

The weather in Alabama has not been the best this year and the guys wanted to get some training and One on One instructional help so they can have a good senior season.

Kenny Spencer, Norther Alabama's Kicker, is about 6' and about 225 pounds and showed me a pretty strong leg. During the two days we worked on getting his foot to ball contact more consistent.

We also made a slight adjustment with his approach angle. Kenny had a tendency to get his foot wrapped a little around the ball causing him to pull or draw the ball left. A minor approach angle adjustment was all he needed for him to start kicking the ball straight down the middle.

At the end of the workouts Kenny showed me some good technique and leg strength on his directional kickoffs.

It was a pleasure working with Kenny and I wish him the best of luck this upcoming season.

Will Baston, Northern Alabama's Punter, is about 6'4 and about 205 pounds and has good size for a punter. Will has a lot of upside but like most punters is a little fundamentally unsound. Will has learned some bad habits and fundamentals during his career and is here for some One on One Punting Lessons to get better. Basically refining his punting skills.

As you can see in the photo below Will has been taught to drop the ball with the nose up. Some players might drop the ball with the nose a little up but Will had the ball tilted dramatically up. The ball must eventually get flat or nose down to achieve a (SNO) spiral nose over punt.

For two days I just worked basic fundamentals with Will. I taught him my Drop Progression and One Step Drills. By the end of the second day Will was getting his drop right and turning over a lot more balls.

With a better flat or nose down drop Will started to hit more power zone punts with regular consistency.

Northern Alabama is blessed to have two kicking specialists with talent. I wish Will the best of luck in this upcoming season.


At the end of the lesson all three Blues Brothers look-a-likes took a photo. These guys made me look good!

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2009 NFL Combine - Day 4

Friday night I was networking again. I had a great conversation with the Executive Vice President of the NFL, Ray Anderson. Once again the topic was the future of kicking specialists, rosters spots and development programs for specialists.

Ray asked me to send him my ideas because he said, the time is right for this type of discussion.

So, next week I will draft up a letter and a list of ideas and get it off to the NFL office. Just trying to be a voice for the kicking specialist and the kicking game.

I moved around the stadium and I saw my friend and former Baltimore Ravens Head Coach, Brian Billick working a NFL Network broadcast with Mike Mayock. I've known Brian since 1979 and believe me, he's a natural when it comes to talking.

In the photo below is the NFL Network crew doing a live broadcast. Rich Eisen, Brian Billick and Mike Mayock. They are broadcasting the entire NFL Combine until next Tuesday.

This morning, I was up early and at Lucas Oil Stadium to continue networking. It was a busy day for me with some top brass people.

I had a great conversation about Coach Zauner's NFL Free Agent Camp with the General Manager of the New York Giants, Jerry Reese. He seemed very receptive to sending someone from his organization.

Next, I ran into the Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh. I showed my list of players and plan. He said the Ravens will be there. John broke into the NFL and was the Special Teams Coach for the Philadelphia Eagles for many years. He has done an outstanding job as the Ravens Head Coach and his success may open up the doors for other Special Teams Coaches... go John!

The above photo is of the inside of Lucas Oil Stadium and a group of offensive linemen getting ready to run their 40 yard dashes.

As I moved through the stadium I finally saw my good friend and new Head Coach of the New York Jets, Rex Ryan. Rex and I coached together for four years with the Ravens. We had some great times on and off the field. I wish Rex the best of luck in his new position with the Jets. Rex said the Jets would have somebody at my April 6th Free Agent Specialists NFL Combine.

After four long days and nights in Indianapolis I'm ready to get back home to Fountain Hills, Arizona where the temperature is in the mid 70's. As you can see in the photo below as I left the Lucas Oil Stadium it was snowing and the temperature was in the low 20's.

I believe my trip to the NFL Combine was very successful. I met, talked and networked with a lot of NFL people. The secret to any one's success is sometimes not what you know but who you know.

As I am sitting at the Indianapolis airport finishing my blog, Russ Grimm, Arizona Cardinals offensive line coach has just sat down next to me and we are going to talk more football. We were on the same flight up to Indy and now on the same flight back home. Go Cardinals!

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2009 NFL Combine - Day 3

Last night at the Westin Hotel I had a great conversation with Mike Mayock who is the draft guru for the NFL Network. I think Mike and the staff at the NFL Network do an outstanding job covering games, the NFL Combine and the NFL Draft in April.

Mike and I talked at length about kicking specialists. He agreed that not many people really know how to evaluate and rank kicking specialists and that is why even he calls many NFL Special Teams Coaches to get their opinions and rankings.

I mentioned that I'm always available for evaluations, interviews or information to any network or writer to promote specialists and the kicking game.

During the last two days and evenings I got a chance to introduce myself to all the 2009 NFL Combine Kicking Specialists either at the Crown Plaza Hotel or at the meetings areas. I must say there was a wide variety of personalities present this week.

Some of the specialists were very quiet and others you might say were not so quiet. Everyone prepares for games and competition in various ways. This is why teams and coaches interview most of the players present. Teams do not just draft players because of talent, intelligence and personalities play a big part in teams evaluations.

Today was an exciting day for me because it was the first day of workouts and the kicking specialists were up at 1:00 PM trying to impress the 32 NFL GM's, Head Coaches, Special Teams Coaches and personnel people.

This morning while the players were finishing up on tests and other meeting with Combine officials and preparing for their workout I was working the stadium looking for Special Teams Coaches.

I was really proud of myself. Before the workout started at 1:00 PM I actually talked to 30 of 32 Special Teams Coaches in person and handed them my lists of Free Agents I will have at my April 6th Free Agent Specialists NFL Combine in Scottsdale, Arizona. Of the two Special Team Coaches I didn't see I did talk to the Directors of Pro Personnel for their teams.

Today I talked to the following Special Teams Coaches:

Bobby April - Bills
Alan Lowry - Titans
Joe Marciano - Texans
Jerry Rosburg - Ravens
Danny Smith - Redskins
Tom Quinn - Giants
Rich Bisaccia - Buccaneers
Steve Hoffman - new K.C. Chiefs Coach
Mike Priefer - former K.C. and current Broncos Coach
Ted Daisher - former Browns and current Eagles Coach
Danny Grossman - Carolina
John Bonamego - Dolphins
Brian Murphy - new Viking Coach
Tom McMahon - new Rams Coach
Ray Rychleski - new Colts Coach
Bobby DePaul - Director Pro Personnel Chicago Bears

The workout began on time and the players all warmed up. The snappers started the event with some individual work while the punters were warming up. A couple of the NFL Coaches put Sean Griffin (Michigan) and Jacob Ingram (Hawaii) through some snapping drills.

When Sean and Jacob finished snapping for the drills the snappers they now had to snap for the punting workout. The punters each punted 14 balls. They started with 8 open field punts and finished with 6 directional pooch punts.

I recorded hang times and distances. I really didn't care about get offs because most of the punters didn't have the luxury of punting with a snapper the last two months. I was simply evaluating their style, technique and potential. In other words leg strength and explosion.

The order for the Punters was #1 Justin Brantly (Texas A & M), #3 Britton Colquitt (Tennessee), #4 Matt Fodge (Oklahoma State), #5 Graham Gano (Florida State), #6 Kevin Huber (Cincinnati), #8 Tim Masthay (Kentucky), and #9 Thomas Morstead (SMU).

After the punting workout was finished they progressed to evaluating everyone that wanted to kickoff.

This section is always important to me and the other coaches because you can see who has a big leg! Every so often even if a kicker or punter might not have the talent or potential to be the starting kicker or punter he might be able to make a roster as a kickoff specialists.

The kickoff workout consisted of a total of 11 kickoffs. The first 5 kickoffs were straight down the middle. We recorded hang times and distances. The last 6 kickoffs were directional. Three kickoffs to the right corner and three to the left.

The order for Kickoffs was #2 David Buehler (USC), #3 Britton Colquitt, #4 Matt Fodge, #5 Graham Gano, #7 Jose Martinez (UTEP), #8 Tim Masthay, #9 Thomas Morstead, #10 Louie Sakoda (Utah), and #10 Sam Swank (Wake Forest).

I must say a couple of players not only impressed me but also the other coaches in the stadium. They had good strong and powerful legs. At least this year there were several kickoffs into the end zone with excellent hang times.

The field goal workout was last. The field goal workout consisted of an elevation drill and progressed to a 15 field goal workout from both hashes.

Each kicker had 3 kicks at each distance. They alternated hashes starting with 30 yard field goals and progressed back to 35, 40 and 45 yards. The last 3 kicks were from 50 yards right down the middle.

Once again the order was set by numbers: #2 David Buehler, #3 Britton Colquitt, #5 Graham Gano, #7 Jose Martinez, #9 Thomas Morstead, #10 Louie Sakoda and #11 Sam Swank.

This was one of the first years the NFL Combine let several players do multiple events. Britton Colquitt (Tennessee), and Thomas Morstead both punted, kicked off and kicked field goals. The guys were dead tired at the end of the workout.

Then at the end of the workout they had the kicking specialist do the 225 pound bench press test. None of the special teams coaches attended because they were all sprinting to the airport to catch flights. However I did observe the event. This is optional for the kickers and punters however, the snappers always get tested.

David Buehler, Tim Masthay and Thomas Morstead all participated in the bench press workout. This really isn't important to us coaches. All we care is how far, how straight and how high the guys can kick or punt the football.

For the record Thomas Morstead had the first most impressive 19 reps but was out done by 25 reps by David Buehler.

The event is over for me. I now have all the information I need to evaluate these players to all the other players around the country that did not get invited to the NFL Combine.

Last year two of the players I trained in March, Brett Kern (Broncos) and Garrett Hartley (Saints) both earned spots on NFL rosters as free agents. Brett, Garrett along with Brandon Cantu (Seahawks), Conner Barth (Chiefs), Steve Hauschka (Ravens), and Dan Carpenter (Dolphins) all made NFL rosters as free agents and none of them were here at the combine.

The players that attended the NFL Combine have a leg up on some of the other talent because they were showcased here. However, the NFL has a lot of scouts and personnel people. Every NFL team that needs a kicking specialist will be beating the bushes for the best player to fill their situation.

Last year Denver Broncos General Manager & Personnel, Jim Goodman asked me to find them a punter and kicker. I recommended Brett Kern and Garrett Hartley. After the draft the Broncos signed both players to free agent contracts. I must be doing something right.

Stay Tuned for more of Coach Zauner's Blog from the NFL Combine.

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2009 NFL Combine - Day 2

I have been to Indianapolis and the RCA Dome attending the NFL Combine I believe for 19 years as a College Coach, an NFL Special Teams Coordinator and now as a Consultant.

Not too much has changed in the 19 years except now there is a brand new football stadium which is Lucas Oil Stadium. This will be my first visit inside the new facility. In the photo below it looks beautiful.

Thursday was a full day of networking with NFL GM's, Head Coaches, Directors of Personnel, Special Teams Coaches and Scouts.

During my 13 years in the NFL as a Special Teams Coach with the Vikings, Ravens and Cardinals I made a lot of friends and probably a few enemies. (I hope not a lot!)

My mission is to get as many teams to attend (my) Coach Zauner's Free Agent Specialists NFL Combine, April 6th in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The morning went unbelievable well with meeting Roger Goodell (NFL Commissioner), Ray Anderson (NFL Executive VP), Mike Pereira (NFL's Head of Officials), Bill Polian (Colts), Ozzie Newsome (Ravens), George Kokinis (GM Browns), and Jeff Ireland (GM Dolphins).

It was great seeing Ozzie Newsome. Ozzie and I played a few rounds of golf while I was the Special Teams Coach in Baltimore with the Ravens. Ozzie is a class act and one heck of a General Manager. with a high performance rating within the leagues NFL Draft or trades. As for his golf game, well that's another matter. We had some great times together on and off the field.

Later in the day my old friend and the new General Manager of the Cleveland Browns, George Kokinis tapped me on the shoulder and said "hi". George was brought through the Cleveland Browns and Baltimore Ravens system under Ozzier Newsome.

George and I had some great conversations about special teams players and kicking specialists. George is a task master when it comes to personnel and will do a heck of a job for the Browns.

Then there's Jeff Ireland, General Manager for the Miami Dolphins. Back in 1992 when I was a kicking consultant for the Chicago Bears under Head Coach Mike Ditka, Jeff was a free agent placekicker from Baylor. Boy has he come a long way and fast!

My networking continued at the Westin Hotel. I had a chance to talk to Jack Del Rio, Jacksonville Jaguars Head Coach and one of my former players at the Minnesota Vikings. Next I talked to Cincinnati Head Coach Marvin Lewis. Marvin and I coached together back in the mid 80's at the University of New Mexico.

I moved down the hallway to spend time talking to Carolina Head Coach John Fox and Tennessee Titans Head Coach Jeff Fisher. I've known John for a long time since our days when we were both coaches back in San Diego at different schools.

My mission went on. During the course of the afternoon and evening I got a chance to meet up and talk to a large part of the NFL Special Teams Coaches. I believe they liked my Free Agent Specialists NFL Combine idea and most were impressed with the list of players I had coming.

The List of NFL Special Teams Coaches I talked to so far:

Mike Westhoff - New York Jets
Bruce DeHaven - Seattle Seahawks
Al Everest - S.F. 49ers
Scottie O'Brien - former Broncos and current Patriots
Brad Seely - former New England Patriots and current Browns
Joe DeCamillis - former Jaguars and current Cowboys
Greg McMahon - New Orleans Saints
Darrin Simmons - Cincinnati Bengals
Steve Crosby - San Diego Chargers
Stan Kwan - Detroit Lions
Keith Armstrong - Atlanta Falcons
Kevin O'Day - New York Jets S.T. Assistant
Kevin Spencer - Arizona Cardinals
John Fassel - Oakland Raiders
Russ Purnell - former Colts and current Jaguars
Shawn Slocum - Green Bay Packers
Bob Ligashesky - Super Bowl Champs Pittsburgh Steelers

It is Friday morning as I write this blog and I have talked to half of the Special Teams Coaches. Today is a big day because at 1:00 PM the Kicking Specialist start the combine with their workouts and right after most of the Special Teams Coaches are sprinting to the airport to catch flights.

I look forward to the kicking specialists workout this afternoon. I love to evaluate talent. I and all the Special Teams Coaches will see how good this group is compared to previous years. On paper this group looks pretty good.

Stay Tuned for More of Coach Zauner's Blog from the NFL Combine.

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NFL Combine Coach Zauner Meets NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell

It's always great being at the NFL Combine. Not only do I get a chance to talk with a lot of friends, but you can never tell what's going to happen during a day.

This morning I was at the Westin Hotel and ran into Bill Polian (President Colts) and Ozzie Newsome (GM & VP Ravens). I was talking to the both of them about the Free Agent Combine I am working to put together for April 6th in Scottsdale, Arizona when all of a sudden NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell came walking around the corner.

This was a first for me, as I had never met the Commissioner before. It wasn't Andy Worhal's 15 minutes of fame...but it was 5 minutes of talking time with the NFL Commissioner.

I thought this was better.

So there I was with two General Managers and the Commissioner, and I must say I was a little nervous. I've known Bill and Ozzie through the years but I had never met an NFL Commissioner. I was a little nervous.

After I was introduced, I listened as the Commissioner talked with Bill and Ozzie about NFL issues. As Bill and Ozzie left to go to their NFL competition meetings, the Commissioner started heading off to one of the NFL Suites. As he was leaving, I asked him if I could get 5 minutes of his time to discuss some concerns I had about the future of kicking specialists.

I must say that Roger Goodell is a class act. He said yes and then listened to my short presentation about the concerns I had regarding kicking specialists.

The first thing I discussed with him was my concern that punters and snappers in America are becoming a dying breed. Why? Because it seems their 'window of opportunity' to get signed to an NFL roster is shrinking.

If they punt or snap in college and then don't make it into the NFL soon after they graduate, what else can they do?

There is no NFL Europe anymore, so they can't continue to be an active player, working on their game and waiting for their opportunity from there.

The Arena 1 league, which gave kickers a place to play, compete and develop here in the U.S., has disappeared as well. At least for now.

I told the Commissioner it was interesting the 'window' seemed to be shrinking only for American players and not Australian or European players. Those players can play rugby or Australian rules football well into their 20's while waiting for a chance to sign on to the NFL. American players really don't have that opportunity.

The second concern I shared with the Commissioner was what I saw as the 'declining' quality of some of kicking specialists being signed to various NFL teams lately. This because kicking specialists were being required to fulfill dual rolls. In other words, I thought some NFL teams were trading 'quality' for 'quantity' when it came to their kicking specialists.

I explained that because of the limited spots available to teams, the first rosters spots that seem to be cut back are those of the kicking specialists. I told the Commissioner that a number of NFL Special Teams Coaches have shared this concern with me as well while discussing how they needed to find a player who could punt and kickoff, or kickoff and kick field goals, or punt and kick field goals.

I told the Commissioner, that having been in the NFL for 13 years as a Special Teams Coach, I know the NFL has always stood for excellence. However, it was my opinion that some of the rules and various situations created by the NFL are now affecting the quality of the kicking specialist.

I said I believed the quality in training camps is being watered down due to these rules. That teams were settling for mediocrity when it came to the role of the kicking specialist. I said it was my opinion that some of the better kickers, punters and snappers were not being signed to NFL rosters because they could not handle the two roles teams were now requiring of them.

And therefore, the NFL's 'standard of excellence' was being compromised.

Lastly, I mentioned to him there seems to be a trend for NFL teams to just 'recycle' veteran punters and kickers regardless their performance. It seemed to me, that many NFL teams just want a player with experience. Not necessarily the 'best' player. Again, my thought is the NFL's 'standard of excellence' was being compromised.

Last year, in the middle of the season, the Saints gave Garrett Hartley - a kicker I had worked with who recently graduated from U. of Oklahoma - his chance. The results? He ended his season 14 for 14! I'm not sure how many more 'experienced' players had that record.

But, enough was enough. The Commissioner had been very generous with his time so I ended my conversation on that issue.

He was a class act who listened to me and said he appreciated my comments. He said I brought up some good points that he would think about.

As he left I found myself thinking, "I was actually a 'voice' for the Kicking Game & Kicking Specialists". Something I care about very much.

Not many people get the chance to express their opinions to the NFL Commissioner, and have him actually take the time to listen.

As I said, it's always great being at the NFL Combine. I'd take this 5 minutes with Commissioner Goodell over 15 minutes of fame anytime!

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2009 NFL Combine - Day 1

Wednesday was a travel day for me back to Indianapolis for my 19th NFL Combine. How time flies. The photo above is of the old RCA Dome which has hosted the combine during my visits and has now been torn down and a new facility has been built.

Last night I made contact with several teams and asked their opinions about me hosting a Free Agent Tryout Camp in Scottsdale, Arizona on April 6th. Tampa Bays, new General Manager Mark Dominik, Atlanta Falcons Head Coach Mike Smith, Seattle Seahawks Director of Pro Scouting Will Lewis and Arizona Cardinals Special Teams Coach Kevin Spencer were all very receptive to the idea.

My goal for the next four days is to meet and talk to as many Head Coaches, Special Teams Coaches, General Managers and Directors of College and Pro Personnel and inform them of my different consulting services. I know I'll be busy.

I will also be here evaluating the kicking, punting and snapping talent which consists of the following players:

Long Snappers: Sean Griffin (Michigan) and Jacob Ingram (Hawaii)

Kickers: David Buehler (USC), Graham Gano (Floriday State Uuniversity), Jose Martinez (UTEP), Louie Sakoda (Utah) and Sam Swank (Wake Forest).

Punters: Justin Brantley (Texas A & M), Matt Fodge (Oklahoma State), Kevin Huber (U of Cincinnati), Thomas Morstead (SMU), and two late additions Tim Masthay (Kentucky) and Britton Colquitt (U of Tennessee)

I have seen some of the players already at the Senior Bowl and look forward to meeting and evaluating them here at the NFL Combine.

I will be blogging for the next four days from the NFL Combine here in Indianapolis.

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Tyler Vogds One on One Lesson

On Monday and Tuesday I had Tyler Vogds in Scottsdale, Arizona for some One on One Snapping Lessons. Tyler and his father, Dan flew in from my home town of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Tyler last year finished his college eligibility at Carroll College (Wisconsin) and is looking to make the jump to the NFL.

Dan was an offensive line coach at Slinger High School and has coached his son on his snapping technique. He's done a good job.

In our two day One on One Lessons I watched and analyzed Tyler's snapping technique. Tyler is about 6'4 and about 250 pounds and a good athlete. He actually was a wide receiver during his playing days at Carroll College but at a lighter weight.

I watch and analyzed Tyler's technique and during our video session pointed out a couple of flaws that I thought were causing him to be inconsistent. He and his father were in agreement with my assessment.

During the two day lesson we worked several drills. Perfect laces, Balls & Strikes, Snap & Vertical Set Drills. I put Tyler through various drills to reprogram his muscle memory. Tyler was taught some snapping techniques that might of made his snap times a little faster but also inconsistent.

Consistency, Consistency and more Consistency is the name of game with me. When Tyler snaps his best ball he has good speed but needs to do it more often. Any snapper that is trying to make it into the NFL must be accurate and consistent. Snap time is a factor but accuracy is the most important single factor.

At the end of our two day session I explained to Tyler what he needs to do to get more consistent. Drills and mass practice to establish a new muscle memory that will give him the consistency he needs to impress and NFL Scouts or Special Teams Coaches.

Click below to listen to Dan Vogd's Testimonial on a parents perspective of Coach Zauner's One on One Teaching Lessons.

It was a real pleasure working with Tyler and I wish him the best of luck in his pursuit of a career in the NFL.

I myself enjoyed listening to Dan Vogd's testimonial because when you get another coach assessing and evaluating your teaching and coaching style it means a lot more than just a parent who maybe doesn't understand teaching methods and progressions. I believe Dan also left a better snapping coach.

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Eastern Washington Specialists

Over the past couple of days between lessons I on the field for more evaluations. On Sunday and Tuesday two players from Eastern Washington University flew down to Scottsdale, Arizona to get an evaluation or my opinion on their ability to play in the NFL.

Fritz Brayton is a about 6'2 and 195 pounds. During our one hour evaluation he went through his warm up drills and progression. I watched and analyzed. He had good form but had a couple minor flaws in his technique. In the photo below you can see him pumping or taking the ball below his waist on a good snap and kind of tossing it to his foot.

I introduced Fritz to my One Step Drill and a couple of other drills to repair his flaws. Fritz hit a couple of 4.7 and 4.8 hang times but was a little inconsistent because of his drop.

At the end of his evaluation I gave Fritz my opinion and plan to get better and more consistent. He knows what he needs to do to take his game to the next level. I wish him the best of luck at his Pro Day in March.

Last fall I gave Mark Lathim a One on One Snapping Lesson. Tuesday Mark returned for an evaluation. Mark is about 6' 1 and about 235 pounds. He was excellent on the perfect laces drill. When he started to long snap he showed me excellent speed.

As he continued to snap I watch and analyzed his technique. He showed me a little inconsistency as he continue to long snap during a couple of drills. I picked up on a flaw he had in his delivery.

By the end of the one hour evaluation session I had a good idea of his potential. I gave Mark my assessment and a plan to get more consistent.

I wish Mark the best of luck on his Pro Day in March.

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Football Coaching Clinic in Seattle

During my trips to both San Francisco and Seattle this past weekend to speak at their State High School Football Coaches Clinics both Philip Grams and Rick Anderson, Reps for Digital Sports Video played a big part in my success as a speaker.

Both Phil and Rick took my video and Power Point Presentations and made me look like a star. Their Digital soft wear package for me as a speaker made my transitions from power point to video and back again so smooth.

I probably will now invest in their product because they made me a believer.

Once again I spoke on kickoff coverage and kickoff coverage drills. In the above photo I went over my favorite Gauntlet Drill. A drill that always assisted me and other coaches in selecting special teams and athletic players.

The second presentation was on snapping, holding and kicking. There was full room of coaches wanting to know how to improve their kicking specialists.

The third session was strictly on my Power Zone Punting Technique. I covered fundamentals, drills and technique. Once again the group of coaches in attendance was excellent.

I really enjoyed my time in Seattle and appreciate the time the Digital Video Guys spent helping me to give an organized and professional presentation.

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Specialists Evaluations

On Thursday I had two kicking specialists formerly from Western Washington University fly down from Seattle for an evaluation.

In the last month and going forward I have added evaluations to my program. Because I have had so many players and parents calling, emailing and FaceBooking me about their son's potential and future as a kicking specialists in high school, college or NFL I added a option for people to get my professional kicking evaluation of their potential to move on to their next level.

During this one hour evaluation I watch, analyze and even coach the players to find out what their true potential could be at the next level for them.

Everyone has dreams for receiving a scholarship or signing an NFL contract. However, there is also reality. I just try to be honest and evaluate their potential. I will also recommend maybe a plan of action to get to the next level.

About a month ago Robby Smith a kicking specialist from Western Washington University called about my NFL tryout camp in April. I mentioned it was by invitation only. He and his friend Matt Overton decided to fly down and get an evaluation rather than take a One on One Lesson.

In the photo above, Matt Overton who is a long snapper was up first. Matt warmed up and went through his progression. I watched, analyzed and asked a lot of questions. Part of my evaluation is the mental part of his game not just the players skill level and potential.

I made Matt do several of my snapping drills. In the photo above we worked my perfect laces drill. Matt passed my perfect laces drill with flying colors.

We went on and checked out his long snapping technique. I introduced Matt to my line and ball and strikes drill. I later put Matt through a couple of my other drills to see how well he could snap, block and cover.

After an hour I had a good idea of Matt's ability and his potential as an NFL Snapper.

Robby Smith was up next.

Robby warmed up and started to kick. He showed me some pop and explosion during his field goal kicking period. We finished the evaluation with Robby showing me his kickoff potential.

Both of these two young men have talent and potential. The key is consistency. Potential is nothing without performance. It is sometimes a fine line separating the two.

Robby and Matt have dreams to play in the NFL. Talent, consistency and exposure all play a part in everyone success in life. I hope my coaching tips during my one hour evaluation will pay dividend for these two young men. I wish them the best of luck in their pursuit of an NFL career.

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Austin Starr & Tim Masthay Lesson

Once again this week I had quality kicking specialists in Scottsdale, Arizona to train and work with. In the photo above (left) is kicker, Austin Starr (University of Indiana), snapper, Nick Sundberg (Cal. Berkeley) and punter/kickoff specialist, Tim Masthay (University of Kentucky).

Austin Starr was back in town for another three day One on One Kicking Lessons. As I mentioned in my first blog, Austin was coming off a injury this senior year that had changed his kicking swing and style. He was kicking at and around the ball which was causing inconsistency.
During the three days we kept working on foot position drills and the One step drill to get Austin to kick up and through the ball.

When Austin kicks up and through the ball and makes good foot to ball contact the ball goes high, far and straight.

Kicking the ball with a holder is one thing, however kicking with a snap and hold is the best way to train.

In the photo above Austin has Nick Sundberg snapping and Tim Masthay holding. Austin has shown me that he has improved from our first session. He has a strong leg but like many kickers the key to his success will be consistency.

Austin is trying to get his swing more consistent so he can impress the NFL Scouts in March at his Pro Day. The first time we met back in January, Austin was not able to kickoff because of his hip injury.

Early in Monday's workout lesson while Austin was fresh, I wanted to see him kickoff. I had heard he had a big leg and I wanted to see it with my own eyes. Austin warmed up and then started to launch some ball high and far. I believe with a slight breeze he hit several balls 5,6,8 and 9 yards deep with anything from 4.2 to his best 4.41 hang time.

The key Austins and every kicker's success in kicking field goals and kickoffs is his foot to ball contact. In the photo below is a close up of Austins foot position on the ball on one of his kickoffs that he launched into the end zone.

Austin gave a testimonial on his first visit. He once again enjoyed his visit to Scottsdale, Arizona and his One on One Lessons and knows from the lessons and video exactly what he needs to work on to take his game to the next level.

Next Man Up is University of Kentucky senior punter, Tim Masthay.

Tim is a good looking 6'2 about 205 pound punter and kickoff specialists with a big leg. Tim came to Scottsdale, Arizona for some One on One Punting Lessons to prepare himself for the NFL Combine next week in Indianapolis.

In the first lesson I watched and analyzed Tim's technique. I asked him a lot of questions and he gave me answers. Tim like many punters gave me some answers that made me scratch my head. He talked about dropping the ball with a straight nose (below photo) and outside his hip.

We worked on drills to get his placement directly in front of his punting leg however, he still was dropping the ball too straight in my opinion.

Tim also had a lot of arm movement. He was pumping or bouncing the ball and tossing the ball to his foot as seen in the photo below.

After our video review I introduced Tim to my drop progression drill. He worked on getting the ball directly in front of his punting leg and dropping the ball to his foot.

With a better placement and drop Tim started to hit the ball more consistently to the top of his foot. Tim started to hit more (SNO) spiral nose over punts to the power zone.

By the end of the 2nd lesson Tim was getting the idea. He was starting to smile. Some of his better power zone punts were going 45 to 50 yards with 4.8 to 5.1 hang times. In the photo below Tim was dropping the ball directly in line with his punting leg and with the ball slightly nosed in.

After each practice we worked on Tim's kickoffs. Tim definitely has an excellent kickoff leg and should impress the NFL Scouts at the Combine.

During Tim's visit he mentioned to me that he always had several concerns about the things he was doing with his punting technique but didn't know if what he was doing was right or wrong and maybe how to fix it.

Tim now knows exactly what to do and how to take his punting game to the next level. Click below to listen to Kentucky's Tim Masthay's testimonial on working with Coach Zauner.

It was a real pleasure working with Tim and I wish him the best of luck next week at the NFL Combine and also in this years upcoming 2009 NFL Draft.

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Todd Boleski & Brian Mimbs

On Thursday, Friday and Saturday University of Georgia Punter, Brian Mimbs (left) and Michigan State University Kicker Todd Boleski (right) were in Scottsdale, Arizona for three days of One on One Punting and Kicking Lessons. Also in the photo above is University of Cal. Berkeley Snapper, Nick Sundberg (center) who came out all three days to snap for the kicking specialists and work on his technique.

About a month ago Todd Boleski contacted me about coming to Scottsdale, Arizona for some One on One Kicking Lessons mentioning he had a strong leg but needed to work on fundamentals. My thought after watching Todd for just a few kicks was, he's exactly right.

As Todd continued to kick I could see he had a big leg but needed work on his fundamentals. In the photo below I am showing Todd the sweet spot of his foot that is suppose to hit the sweet spot of the ball. Todd was making contact too many times on the end of his foot. When Todd made contact with the ball the sound was more of a slap than an explosion.

Todd is about 6'5 and 215 pounds with long levers. We started working on his 'Perfect' Triangle trying to get both consistent steps and approach. As that improved so did his 'Perfect Plant' and contact with the ball. He hit some booming field goal kicks of 60 yards or better.

The mistakes that I pointed out on the field became crystal clear in the video review sessions. Todd was a quick fix and in day two he started making even more progress.

He ended the second day with some booming kickoffs into the end zone. I started to think this guy just might have the leg to be a kickoff specialist in the NFL.

The third day Todd showed me with a snap, hold and kick he could nail some long field goals. He made a series of field goals from the 48, 52, 56 and 58 yards.

We finished the third session working again on his kickoff technique. We tried to get his foot to ball contact more consistent by working on his approach and perfect plant. Even after three long days of kicking and with a tired leg I could see this young man has some NFL potential.

Click below to listen to Michigan State Kicker, Todd Boleski's Testimonial on his working a three day One on One Kicking Lessons with Coach Zauner.

Todd said he enjoyed the One on One Lessons and will be back to work more on his fundamentals. It was a pleasure working with Todd Boleski and I wish him the best of luck at his pro day in March and in his pursuit of an NFL career.

Next up is University of Georgia Punter, Brian Mimbs.

Last year at the beginning of the 2008 football season Drew Butler who is the son of former Chicago Bears all time great kicker, Kevin Butler contacted me on FaceBook and also called a couple of times to talk. Drew was the backup punter to Brian and mentioned to me that Brian had a big leg and had some NFL potential and I should keep an eye out on him.

I watched Brian punt when the University of Georgia played Arizona State out here in Tempe during the season. Brian hit some excellent hang time punts.

During the first session I pointed out to Brian a couple of minor flaws I saw in his technique. In the video review the flaws also became crystal clear to Brian. Brian knew he needed to make some adjustments.

Like most punters Brian's biggest two problems were his foot work and drop. I introduced my drop progression which Brian worked in the hotel room each day and night.

By the end of the second session Brian was placing the ball directly in front of his punting leg and was dropping the ball a little more consistently. His hard work was paying dividends. He was hitting more (SNO) spiral nose over punts to his power zone. He was starting to smile.

In the third session I put Brian through a full NFL type workout. He started with 4 or 5 open field punts in each direction. Next, I had him directional punt 4 or 5 balls to or outside the numbers. Next, he Pooch Punted several balls and tried to land them inside the ten yard line. We finished the workout checking out his ability to hold for both right and left footed kickers.

In my opinion, Brian made a lot of improvement from the first session to the last. Even after three long days of punting and with tired legs he was booming the ball between 43 and 50+ yards with excellent hang times. He was finally hitting some excellent coverage kicks with hang times between 4.6 and 5.0 seconds.

Click below to listen to University of Georgia Punter, Brian Mimb's Testimonial on his working three days of One on One Punting Lessons with Coach Zauner.

Brian told me he was very happy with the results of his visit and knows with more practice he's going to keep improving. He wants to come back in a couple weeks and keep improving on his fundamentals.

It was a pleasure working with Brian and seeing his progress. I wish him the best of luck at his pro day in March and his pursuit of an NFL career.

Todd flew in from Michigan and Brian from Georgia. They decided to room and rent a car together. After spending three days rooming and training together they sure seem to get along pretty well. Maybe this game of football can keep these three guys friends for life. Because all three, Todd, Brian and Nick all have the potential to be playing football on Sundays.

I also want to thank Nick Sundberg for coming out and snapping for the guys during their drills.

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Kicking Specialists Training in AZ

On Thursday, Friday and Saturday Brian Mimbs, University of Georgia and Todd Boleski, Michigan State University came to Scottsdale, Arizona for some One on One Punting & Kicking Lessons. Nick Sundberg, University of California Berkeley who lives in Phoenix joined the group to snap for punts, field goals and work on his technique.

For those who are looking to come to Scottsdale, Arizona for One on One Lessons you will not only have good weather but also other good specialists to work and train with. I usually have no more than two or three One on One Lessons a day and try to book a group a players together so they all benefit from the other player's talents.

While Brian Mimbs was working on his punting technique Nick Sundberg was practicing his punt snap technique. While Todd Boleski was working on his field goal technique Nick was working on his perfect laces and field goal snapping technique. Brian was also working on his holding technique for right and left footed kickers.

Looking to schedule a One on One Lesson, come to Arizona and enjoy not only the great weather but also an atmosphere for great training with other individuals who are trying to refine their techniques and pursue a career in the NFL or take your game to the next level.

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Oklahoma State Matt Fodge

On Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of this week Matt Fodge, Oklahoma States Punter was in Scottsdale, Arizona for some One on One Punting Lessons. Matt won the 2008 Ray Guy Award for excellence in punting.

Matt came to Scottsdale to prepare for the NFL Combine workout which is held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, February 18 - 24.

Matt mentioned before the first lesson he wanted to get more consistent. As I watched Matt warm up and start punting I noticed a funky drill he did to work on his drop. Immediately, I could see he was practicing some bad habits and acquiring some bad muscle memory.

During Matt's three day visit we had some unusual windy days. Wind and a bad drop do not go hand in hand. In the photo below, Matt is working my drop progression drill.


Matt enjoyed the video review sessions because he could see the problems his funky drills were causing not only with his drop but also with his punting technique and leg swing.

Like many punters every year coming out of college Matt has the potential to be an NFL punter however, the key is consistency. I believe the key to consistency is to be fundamentally sound in all phases of your kicking or punting game.

During Matt's three day session I just tried to introduce Matt to fundamentals and drills that would would give him the correct muscle memory to be more consistent.

At the end of the three day session Matt's drop had become much more consistent and he started booming some excellent power zone punts consistently through the wind. In the photo below, you can see Matt punting straight up and through the ball.

It was a pleasure working with Matt. He was very receptive to coaching and making adjustments. Matt was a little hesitant making adjustments this close to the NFL Combine, but after working three days his concerns went away.

He liked the power zone punting techniques and various drills I taught him. Matt saw a vast improvement from the first day to the third day and knew the adjustments he was making were the correct adjustments to make.

Click below to listen to Matt Fodge's testimonial working with Coach Zauner:

I wish Matt the best of luck in three weeks at the NFL Combine and during the April 2009 NFL Draft.

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Coach "Z" Speaks at S.F. Clinic

This past weekend I was a speaker for the San Francisco All Sports Clinic at the San Francisco Hyatt Regency. This clinic had about 900 High School Football Coaches in attendance.

It was fun for me not only speaking about Snapping, Holding, Punting and Kicking but also about Special Teams Drills and Schemes.

On Friday I had three, (1) one hour sessions. Below I gave a presentation on Kickoff Cover - Stop Middle Wedge and Wedge Left & Right Returns. My clinic presentation started with a power point presentation consisted as seen in the photo below.

After my power point presentation I followed with video's of my Bag Drill. In each video I highlighted players alignment, assignments and techniques used at each positions.

I also had a video of my famous Gauntlet Drill that I used for 13 years as a Special Teams Coach with the Vikings, Ravens and Cardinals.

In my second clinic presentation I talked about the Art of Punting. I stressed the coaching points I emphasize when teaching my Power Zone Punting Technique to punters.

In the photo below I am talking about the common errors that many punters have when punting a ball. One of the biggest problems with young punters is dropping the ball with the nose up.

Another problem is punters trying to wipe a spiral. In the photo below, I am showing an instructional video with a demonstration with ball hitting on the 2nd or 3rd eyelets on top of the punting shoe.

During this one hour clinic presentation I tried to talk mostly about fundamentals. In the photo below, I'm talking and demonstrating a flat or nose down drop.

In my last clinic presentation I spent one hour talking about the Art of Snapping, Holding and Kicking. The key to any kickers success is having a good snapper and holder.

In the first part of my presentation I covered the fundamentals of snapping. I covered snapping for both field goal and long snapping.

Next, I covered coaching points for teaching a snapper not only to learn to hold but also to refine his skills if he's a capable holder already.

Last, I talked about the fundamentals for a soccer style kicker. A consistent approach, perfect triangle, perfect plant, body position, locking of the ankle before impact, locking of knee after impact and the follow through.

In the photo below, I am talking and showing the coaches future Hall of Fame Kicker, Gary Anderson's technique.

In the photo below, I am emphasizing the importance of a consistent approach and it's correlation to having a perfect plant.

Finally, I closed my clinic presentation showing the Bay Area Coaches a video of my One on One Kicking Lesson with Sebastian Janikowski last summer.

I have been working hard giving a lot of One on One Lessons lately and I must say it was fun getting back up on stage talking about the kicking game with coaches and answering questions.

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