The NFL is a league built on excellence, where the brightest stars and the most dedicated players etch their names into history. Among those who have left an indelible mark on the game is long snapper Morgan Cox, whose consistency, leadership, and precision have earned him a well-deserved spot on ESPN’s All-Quarter Century NFL Team. This prestigious honor recognizes the best players at each position over the past 25 years, and Cox’s inclusion speaks volumes about his impact on the game. For those who understand the nuances of football, this recognition is no surprise—Morgan Cox has been the gold standard at his position for over a decade, and his career is a testament to the importance of specialists in the NFL.
Morgan Cox’s journey to becoming one of the greatest long snappers in NFL history is a story of perseverance, dedication, and mastery of a craft that often goes unnoticed. Long snappers rarely receive the spotlight, but their role is crucial to the success of any team. A perfect snap can mean the difference between a game-winning field goal and a heartbreaking miss, between a punt pinned deep in opponent territory and a disastrous miscue. Cox has made perfection his standard, delivering flawless snaps with remarkable consistency throughout his career. His ability to perform under pressure, combined with his durability and leadership, has made him an invaluable asset to every team he has played for.
Cox entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Tennessee in 2010, signing with the Baltimore Ravens. From the beginning, he demonstrated an uncommon level of precision and reliability. His chemistry with Ravens punter Sam Koch and kicker Justin Tucker became the backbone of one of the most dependable special teams units in the league. Together, they formed what became known as the “Wolfpack,” a trio that operated with near-flawless execution for years. Cox’s contributions were instrumental in the Ravens’ success, including their Super Bowl XLVII victory in the 2012 season. While Tucker’s clutch kicks and Koch’s pinpoint punting often received more attention, those in the know understood that Cox’s snaps were the foundation of their success.
What sets Morgan Cox apart from other long snappers is not just his technical skill but also his durability and leadership. He has been a model of consistency, rarely missing games due to injury and maintaining an exceptionally high level of play year after year. His work ethic and attention to detail have set the standard for what it means to be a professional at his position. Cox’s teammates and coaches have frequently praised his preparation, his ability to stay calm in high-pressure situations, and his willingness to mentor younger players. These qualities have made him a respected figure in locker rooms across the league.
After a decade with the Ravens, Cox joined the Tennessee Titans in 2020, where he continued to perform at an elite level. His presence immediately stabilized the Titans’ special teams unit, proving that his success was not just a product of Baltimore’s system but a reflection of his own excellence. In 2021, he signed with the Los Angeles Rams, where he once again played a key role in a championship run, helping the Rams secure a victory in Super Bowl LVI. His ability to seamlessly integrate into new teams and maintain his high standards further cemented his reputation as one of the best to ever play the position.
ESPN’s All-Quarter Century Team is a celebration of the NFL’s greatest players from the last 25 years, and Morgan Cox’s inclusion is a fitting tribute to his career. While long snappers are often overlooked in such discussions, Cox’s selection highlights the critical role specialists play in the modern game. His career serves as a reminder that football is a team sport in the truest sense—every position, no matter how understated, contributes to success. Cox’s excellence has helped redefine the value of long snappers, proving that mastery of even the most specialized skills can lead to greatness.
Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Cox has also been a leader in the community, using his platform to make a positive impact off the field. His involvement in charitable work and his commitment to giving back have further endeared him to fans and peers alike. He embodies the qualities of a true professional—hardworking, humble, and dedicated to excellence in all aspects of life.
As we celebrate Morgan Cox’s inclusion on ESPN’s All-Quarter Century NFL Team, it’s worth reflecting on what his career represents. In a league that often glorifies touchdowns and highlight-reel plays, Cox’s success is a testament to the importance of fundamentals, consistency, and teamwork. He may not have the flashy stats of a quarterback or the bone-crushing hits of a linebacker, but his contributions have been just as vital to his teams’ success. His recognition on this list is a victory not just for him but for all the unsung heroes of the NFL—the players who do their jobs with quiet excellence, week after week, year after year.
Congratulations, Morgan Cox, on this incredible honor. Your career has been a masterclass in dedication, precision, and professionalism, and your place among the NFL’s best over the past 25 years is well deserved. Long snappers may never dominate the headlines, but your legacy is secure as one of the greatest to ever play the position. Here’s to a remarkable career and a fitting tribute to a true specialist legend.
