The NFL's new kickoff rule NFL showed promising results during the preseason, meeting its goal of increasing the number of kickoff returns. A significant increase was seen, with the return rate reaching 70.5%, the highest since 2014.
Increase in Returns and Home Position of Receiving Equipment
By comparison, the return rate last season was considerably lower at 54.8%. In addition, there were 18 returns that exceeded 40 yards, also the most since 2014. These statistics highlight the effectiveness of the rule in promoting more active returns and potentially adding more excitement to this phase of the game.
The impact of the rule change was also reflected in the receiving team's starting position after a return. The average starting position improved to the 28.8-yard line, an increase of 4.6 yards from 2023 and 4.1 yards from 2022.
This adjustment, along with the new touchback rules that place the offense at the 30-yard line, demonstrates the rule's goal of incentivizing more returns while providing a more favorable starting position for receiving teams.
Teams now face a delicate balance between risk and reward under the new rule. Preseason data suggests that many teams may opt to kick the ball into the end zone to avoid the risk of long returns.
Although the average starting position is only two yards closer to the end zone compared to previous seasons, the potential to allow dangerous returns remains a key consideration.
Coaches are carefully evaluating whether that small advantage in field position is worth the risk of allowing significant returns, a strategic challenge that could influence special teams play throughout the regular season.
Tactical Decisions
Despite the data collected in the preseason, many coaches, including Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, acknowledge that much remains to be learned about how the new rule will fully play out. Preseason games often serve as a testing ground, with teams reserving their most complex strategies for the regular season.
This same sentiment was echoed by Michael Clay, special teams coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles, who noted that some key elements of the strategy were likely saved so as not to give opponents clues. The first few weeks of the regular season are expected to show a more complete picture of how teams will approach kickoffs under the new rule.
Coaches such as Richard Hightower, special teams coordinator for the Chicago Bears, have also emphasized the evaluative nature of the preseason. According to Hightower, much of the preseason was used to evaluate players in individual return matchups, rather than showcasing broader strategic approaches.
Special teams play is expected to become increasingly competitive and tactical as teams begin to implement more sophisticated strategies.
An unexpected change during the preseason has been the increased involvement of kickers in defensive plays. With the new rule encouraging more returns, kickers were more frequently involved in tackles, recording 11.5 tackles (including assists).
This represents a considerable increase from previous seasons, with only 4 tackles recorded in 2023 and 6 in 2022. This trend suggests that the new rule could lead to kickers taking a more active role in special teams defense, which could further transform the way kickoff plays are executed.
Derrick Henry Joins Baltimore Ravens
In other NFL developments, Derrick Henry, the four-time Pro Bowls running back, has joined the Baltimore Ravens, signaling the team's commitment to overcoming its recent playoff struggles.
Despite solid regular season performances, including Lamar Jackson leading the Ravens to the best record in the league and winning his second MVP award, the team has faltered in the postseason. Henry is expected to provide a crucial boost to the Ravens offense, especially given his track record of rushing for more than 1,000 yards in five of the last six seasons.
His addition is seen as a key piece to improving the Ravens' chances of playoff success.
The Ravens' decision to move away from their historically strong ground game during last season's AFC title game has been cited as a key factor in their 17-10 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
With Henry's proven ability as a dominant runner, Baltimore hopes to avoid similar mistakes in their upcoming playoff campaigns. Henry has expressed his motivation for joining the Ravens, citing the team's closeness to making a Super Bowl appearance and his belief that he can help them overcome the final hurdles that have kept them from reaching the title.
We are so back. #Kickoff2024 pic.twitter.com/FWH6NDk01c
- NFL (@NFL) September 5, 2024
Reddick Remains on Strike
Meanwhile, New York Jets quarterback Haason Reddick remains the latest high-profile player to hold a strike after All-Pro left tackle Trent Williams returned to the San Francisco 49ers.
Reddick, who was traded from the Philadelphia Eagles for a 2026 third-round pick that could become a second-rounder depending on terms, is in the final year of a three-year, $45 million contract.
With 27 catches over the past two seasons, including a key role in helping the Eagles reach the Super Bowl, Reddick is considered one of the best quarterbacks in the league.
Reddick's current strike revolves around his contract situation, with a base salary of $14.25 million for the 2024 season.
The Jets, who are looking to make their first playoff appearance since 2010 with new quarterback Aaron Rodgers at the helm, would benefit greatly from Reddick's return. His presence would significantly elevate the team's defense and bolster their chances of competing in a highly competitive AFC East.
