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The original was posted on /r/nfl by /u/TormundIceBreaker on 2024-06-03 15:54:00+00:00.
The NFL implemented what could be the most radical rule changes of the last 20+ years this off-season, when they changed how the kickoff works. For those who do not know the new rule, an overview is given here: .
The rule is designed to ensure we get way more returns than we have lately, and to bring back what was once an exciting play that has since been nerfed into a touchback fest. We’ve already seen reports of teams testing out different styles of returners and some teams saying they may not use their kickers for kickoffs, since tackling will become much more important. KC’s Special Teams coordinator estimated that kickers might be involved in the tackle on 25-40% of the kickoffs.
So what would the NFL do if this return method is somehow broken? What I mean by that, is what if NFL coaches come up with schemes/techniques that allow them to consistently return kicks to the 40 or even past midfield?
This did not happen in the XFL, where the average starting position was only the 29.1 yard line, but it’s not an exact copy of the XFL rules either. What would it take for the NFL to consider an in-season rule change? If teams are consistently returning kicks to midfield or somehow averaging a TD return a game, I could see the NFL stepping in to nerf it, but I don’t know if there has ever been rule changes made mid-season.
Overall, I doubt the new rules prove to be this revolutionary, but I think it’s worth considering how the NFL would react if it does. Either way, the new kickoff is sure to be exciting and I’m looking forward to see how it plays out. What do you think?