The Washington Commanders are doubling down on their elite special teams unit, adding another Pro Bowl-caliber player to their ranks. Already boasting one of the NFL’s premier special teamers in Jeremy Reaves, who earned All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors in 2022, Washington has now signed veteran Nick Bellore, , a two-time Pro Bowler, to their practice squad. Bellore, who brings 14 years of versatile NFL experience, joined the team on Sept. 2.
Bellore is a Swiss Army Knife of sorts, having filled multiple roles throughout his career as a special teams ace, linebacker, and fullback. His ability to adapt has kept him in the league for more than a decade, with his most notable stints coming with the New York Jets, Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, and Seattle Seahawks.
From Undrafted to Pro Bowler
Bellore’s football journey is one of perseverance and versatility. After starting 51 consecutive games at linebacker for Central Michigan and earning three All-MAC selections, Bellore entered the 2011 NFL Draft but went undrafted. He quickly signed with the New York Jets as a free agent and spent four seasons with the team, making a name for himself as a standout on special teams, where he earned PFF All-Pro honors in 2014.
During his time with the San Francisco 49ers in 2016, Bellore made a career-high 10 starts at linebacker and recorded 83 tackles. His ability to fill multiple roles earned him subsequent opportunities with the Lions and Seahawks, where he added fullback duties to his resume. Bellore’s adaptability paid off with two Pro Bowl selections (2020 and 2023) during his five-season run with Seattle.
Commanders’ Special Teams Depth
Bellore joins a Commanders’ special teams unit that has already proven its strength. Reaves, who was an undrafted free agent out of South Alabama, became a fan favorite after a viral video of head coach Ron Rivera telling him he made his first Pro Bowl in 2022 captured hearts. Reaves signed a two-year, $6 million contract with the Commanders in March 2024, solidifying his role as a key piece of the team’s special teams core.
Bellore’s signing is a strategic move as the NFL implements significant changes to special teams rules in 2024, particularly with kickoffs. As the league continues to emphasize player safety, Bellore’s experience and instincts will be crucial in navigating the new rules and continuing Washington’s strong special teams tradition.
New Special Teams Era
The 2024 NFL season ushers in a new era for special teams with sweeping changes to kickoff returns. With the kickoff rules altered to increase the rate of returns and reduce injuries, experienced special teamers like Bellore will be even more valuable. Under the new guidelines, kickoffs will still be made from the 35-yard line, but returners will have a better opportunity to generate returns thanks to restrictions on when other players can move.
As Washington opens their regular season on Sept. 8 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Bellore’s veteran leadership and knack for making impact plays on special teams will be an asset to the Commanders. With Reaves and Bellore both in the mix, the Commanders are set to field one of the most formidable special teams units in the league—a key component as they aim to make waves in 2024.
