The 4A Return Specialists Who Flipped the Field in 2024

Special teams often get overlooked, but these elite return specialists ensured their impact was felt. With electrifying speed, elite vision, and game-changing plays, these athletes consistently put their teams in prime field positions and turned special teams into weapons. Here's a look at Colorado's top 4A return specialists who made opponents pay for kicking in their direction.    Mclinnis displayed a rare blend of size and agility, making him a nightmare for opposing coverage units. In 11 games, he racked up 266 yards on seven kick returns, averaging 38.0 yards per return. Add in his seven punt returns for 71 yards (10.1 avg.), and he was a consistent threat to change momentum.     Over 25 games, Offerdahl established himself as a dependable return man. He tallied 569 kick return yards, averaging 25.9 yards per attempt, with a long of 60 yards. His punt return prowess was just as strong, logging 334 yards on 27 attempts for an impressive 12.4-yard average.     A speedster with breakaway ability, Crowley made every return count. He took six kickoffs for 208 yards in eight games, boasting a 34.7-yard average. His 93-yard touchdown return showcased his ability to turn the tide in a single play, making him a lethal open-field weapon.     Mervin was a workhorse in the return game, featuring in 46 contests. He returned 16 kicks for 468 yards, averaging an impressive 29.3 yards per return, with a long of 79 yards. His 11 punt returns for 106 yards (9.6 avg.) further demonstrated his all-around ability, including a house call on one of his kick returns.     Alvidrez showcased elite acceleration, amassing 227 kick return yards across eight attempts for a strong 28.4-yard average. His longest return of 50 yards hinted at his big-play potential, making him a name to watch for future special team fireworks.     O'Brien put up video-game numbers, cementing himself as the most dangerous returner in the class. In 38 games, he racked up an eye-popping 1,128 yards on 35 kick returns, averaging 32.2 yards per attempt. He took five to the house with long returns of 50, 90, 92, and 97 yards. Adding to his dominance, he tallied 521 punt return yards on 27 attempts (19.3 avg.), including two TDs on 64- and 70-yard returns.     West was a game-breaker, consistently flipping the field. In 10 games, he turned 13 kickoffs into 384 yards, averaging 29.5 yards per return. His two touchdowns, including a 90-yard sprint, proved he had the acceleration and elusiveness to be a difference-maker.     Vanaman showcased reliability and explosiveness. Across 19 games, he turned seven kickoffs into 200 yards, averaging 28.6 yards per return, with a long 45 yards. His ability to provide consistent positive field positions made him a key asset for Vista Ridge.

Special teams often get overlooked, but these elite return specialists ensured their impact was felt. With electrifying speed, elite vision, and game-changing plays, these athletes consistently put their teams in prime field positions and turned special teams into weapons. Here's a look at Colorado's top 4A return specialists who made opponents pay for kicking in their direction.