Australia native Alex Hale made the first in-game placekick attempt of his life last season, and from there went on to take his place among the nation's best kickers, hitting 13 of 14 field-goal attempts before an injury cut his season short with an ACL injury.

Hale was so productive that he was the FBS leader with 2.17 made field goals per game at the time of his injury, and he was named a semifinalist for the Lou Groza Award. His return in 2021 leaves the Cowboys with no concerns in the kicking game as he was named to the preseason watch list for the award this summer.

"Alex is released and ready to go," head coach Mike Gundy said. "He's very mature and understands his ability and how to bring himself along. He's very reliable."

31-year-old punter Tom Hutton also returns for his junior year after excelling at placing the ball last season. His accuracy helped OSU lead the Big 12 with just 1.5 yards per punt return allowed on the year in 2020.

The departure of Dillon Stoner to the NFL leaves a spot needing to be filled in the punt return game. Brennan Presley is the likely option to replace the sure-handed Stoner, as he took some reps in the role late last season.