The University of Alabama football program is gearing up to send another specialist sensation to the NFL, and this time, it’s Australian punting phenom James Burnip.
Since joining the Crimson Tide in 2021, Burnip has been a consistent force on special teams, holding the starting punter role for four standout seasons. This year, he’s taken his game to new heights, averaging an impressive 45 yards per punt while limiting returners to less than one yard per attempt—a testament to his precision and power. With 2,155 yards on 48 punts and 19 of them landing inside the opponent’s 20-yard line, Burnip’s leg has become a crucial weapon for Alabama.
Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing 220 pounds, Burnip is not just reliable—he’s electric. His booming punts, many of which travel over 50 yards, have earned him a semifinalist spot for the prestigious Ray Guy Award, an honor recognizing the nation’s top punter. Unlike former Tide standout J.K. Scott, who never secured the award, Burnip is poised to bring it home to Tuscaloosa.
If Alabama punches its ticket to the College Football Playoff, expect Burnip to play a pivotal role in the Tide’s pursuit of another championship.
The Aussie star recently shared a heartfelt message with Alabama fans, thanking them for making him and his family feel at home over the years.
As Burnip’s college career wraps up, Tide fans are celebrating his legacy. Next up for this punting powerhouse? A well-deserved trip to the Senior Bowl, where he’ll showcase his skills for NFL scouts and solidify his path to the pros.
James Burnip’s journey from Australia to Alabama—and soon to the NFL—is nothing short of remarkable.
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