TAMPA — Safety Miles Killebrew, the NFL’s career leader in blocked punts, signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in March specifically to reunite with new special teams coordinator Danny Smith, the veteran coach hired just two weeks after a 2025 season in which the unit allowed five blocked kicks, ranked 27th in kickoff return yardage and placed 30th in opponent drive start after kickoffs.
“I would say a giant factor,” Killebrew said of Smith’s influence on his free agency decision. “He was my coach for a number of years in Pittsburgh. We have a pretty strong relationship. I know what he expects out there on the field and so when he made the move down here, I saw in my forecast sunny skies.”
Killebrew’s credentials back up the confidence. His 91 special teams tackles rank second in the entire league since he was drafted in 2016. He owns four career blocked punts — more than any active player — along with two Pro Bowl selections and a first-team All-Pro nod in 2023. Smith, who spent the previous 13 seasons as special teams coordinator with the Pittsburgh Steelers and brings 29 years of NFL experience, saw two of his players earn first-team All-Pro honors over his final three seasons in Pittsburgh.
“I take it very seriously,” Killebrew said. “I know how my bread is buttered. I am not here to be the franchise quarterback. I am here to play special teams, no doubt. I know the language that they speak, I can reiterate it. Danny is really big on multiple voices, same message. I know what he is looking for.”
Smith, speaking to media about a month ago, said Killebrew meant the world to him because he was a class person and a great player. The admiration runs both ways — Killebrew described special teams with a reverence uncommon at the position.
“In my opinion, I think it [special teams] is the purest form of the game,” Killebrew said. “I think a punt is the best play in the game. I think it’s critical… I know that games can be won or lost on the back of special teams, so I want to do everything I can in my power to benefit this awesome organization and get some wins.”
Killebrew, who earned his first scholarship to Southern Utah on the strength of his kickoff film, framed the overhaul in terms of what it means for the rest of the Tampa Bay roster heading into 2026. “Danny talks all the time about the hidden yardage out there on the field,” he said. “So, if we can get the ball, if we can get the drive started in a favorable position for Baker, I know he is going to love it. I know if the defense has to pin an offense down in their own territory they’re going to love it. It’s a team win when your special teams is competing at a high level.”