Tag Archives: highest punting average in playoffs

NFL

Camarillo, Rich (2)

Score 1990, #132
Bowman 1991, #424
Topps 1983, #327
Fleer 1990 All Pro, #22
Pro Set 1990 Pro Bowl, #383
Action Packed 1990, #211
Fleer 1990, #332

CARDS: Topps 1983, Action Packed 1990, Bowman 1991, Fleer 1990, Fleer All Pro 1990, Pro Set 1990 Pro Bowl, Score 1990
ACQUIRED: 2012, Akron Acquisition, TTM 2022, C/o Home
SENT: 3/14 RECEIVED: 4/2 (19 days)

CAREER SNAPSHOT:

NOTES:

I had gotten Rich way, way back when he was with the Houston Oilers TTM. He had some great cards, but I only got one at the time. Later I acquired the Topps, Bowman, and Score autographs as part of what I call the ‘Akron Aquisition’- a stack of autographs I got from Bryan when he briefly left the hobby. A consistent signer, I put out these last 4 to Rich, with the majority of them being set needs. Honestly one of the best autographs out there- if not for punters alone. Love the loops. Solid.

NFL

Camarillo, Rich

Card: ProSet 1990 LL
Acquired: In Person, Houston Oilers Training Camp 1994

Rich Camarillo is a great example of the lack of respect for the special teams, notably punters and kickers. One of the most decorated punters of my golden age of football, Rich’s history started like any other typical special teamer- as a free agent. Camarillo was originally picked up by the New England Patriots in 1981 where he’d play for the next seven seasons and in Super Bowl XX. In Super Bowl XX he’d set then Super Bowl records for net yardage and longest punt, but the Patriots would be clobbered by the Chicago Bears 46-10.  In 1988, Rich played one anonymous season for the Rams and then hopped over to the Cardinal organization for the next 5 seasons, where he’d really make his mark.

With free agency in full swing, in 1994 Camarillo would join the Oilers (replacing Greg Montgomery,)  playing for them through 1995, and then one final season for the Oakland Raiders in 1997. Over Rich’s career he’d be named to the Probowl 5 times in 1983, 1989, 1991, 1992, and 1993. In 1992, he’d gain All Pro honors and lead the NFL in 1989 in punting with a 43.4 yard average. Camarillo over his 16 year career would played more than 200 games, and garnered over 40,000 punting yards.  His 39.6 net yard average in a season still stands as record and his 44.5 yards per punt remains the highest playoff average in history.

Although Camarillo had a fine career, there’s probably little chance that he gets into the Hall of Fame, with Ray Guy (who is considered to be an exemplary example of amazing punters) not enshrined after almost 30 years. Rich for his part has remained busy since retirement coaching in the Little League World Series recently embracing his life as a full-time father, golfer, and NFL Alumni. Camarillo is also a member of the NFL All 90s team, the New England Patriots 50th Anniversary team, and still holds many of the team’s records as well.

Games 205   Punts  1027     Yds  43895    Avg 42.7      Lg  76   Blk 6