Overview

Thomas Morstead is an American football punter born on August 13, 1982, in Pearland, Texas. He played college football at Southern Methodist University and was selected by the New Orleans Saints in the fifth round (164th overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft. Morstead developed a reputation for reliable punting, situational kicks, and steady special teams play across his professional career.

Early life and college

Raised in Texas, Morstead excelled in kicking and punting through high school and earned a scholarship to SMU. At the college level he handled both punting and kickoff responsibilities, gaining attention for consistency and hang time rather than long, one-off punts. His college performance made him a draft prospect and led to his selection in 2009.

NFL career and highlights

After being drafted, Morstead became the Saints' primary punter and a regular holder for placekicks. He was part of the Saints' Super Bowl XLIV championship team and is widely remembered for executing the surprise onside kick that helped shift momentum in that game. Over multiple seasons he contributed to field-position battles and was frequently called on for directional and situational punts.

Role, skills and playing style

Punters influence field position, and Morstead combined placement, hang time, and directional control to limit returns and help his coverage unit. He routinely served as the holder on extra points and field goals, a role that requires dependable hands and timing. Observers praised his poise under pressure and ability to execute specialty kicks when a coach wanted to change tempo.

Notable moments and distinctions

  • The surprise onside kick in Super Bowl XLIV remains a defining play in Morstead's career.
  • He was drafted out of SMU in 2009 and immediately assumed punting duties for the Saints.
  • Morstead's combination of punting and holding duties made him a consistent part of New Orleans' special teams strategy.

Legacy and off-field

Beyond on-field contributions, Morstead has been involved in community and charitable efforts and is often cited as a steady veteran presence in locker rooms. His career illustrates how a specialist can have a significant, sometimes game-changing impact without frequent public fanfare. For further reading on the NFL, the Saints, and Morstead's college history, see references and team resources: player profile, position overview, and league information at official pages and archival records.