The first weekend of exhibition games featuring the new dynamic kickoff saw two long returns, a decrease in touchbacks, and some confusion over a play that resulted in a rare safety. The NFL aimed to increase the rate of returns and the potential for big plays, with 81% of kicks being returned so far in the preseason.
Teams have been somewhat conservative in showcasing their strategies before the regular season, keeping their approach “vanilla,” as noted by Raiders coach Antonio Pierce. Understanding the new rules is crucial, highlighted by a safety ruling in the game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars.
In a play where confusion reigned, Kansas City attempted to down a ball for a touchback, but it was deemed a safety after a review. This serves as a teaching moment for coaches and players to grasp the nuances of the revised rules, according to Jaguars coach Doug Pederson.
The last safety on a kick return without a lateral occurred in the 2012 season opener, underscoring the rarity of such plays. Despite the Chiefs’ misstep, the weekend saw exciting moments with multiple long returns, emphasizing the potential for dynamic plays on kickoffs.
The NFL’s offseason changes to kickoffs are aimed at encouraging more returns and minimizing high-speed collisions. The altered setup, with the ball kicked from the 35-yard line and specific positioning rules, aims to increase the excitement and frequency of returns in games.
With only 24 touchbacks in the preseason so far and an average starting field position at the 29-yard line, there is optimism for a higher rate of return plays in the upcoming season. The confusion and adjustments seen in the preseason games serve as valuable learning experiences for teams and officials alike, contributing to a smoother implementation of the new kickoff rules in the regular season.