Kickoff returners in the NFL’s new kickoff rules face a similar challenge as center fielders in baseball. With teams likely to kick line drives with less hang time to prevent returners from getting a running start, returners must quickly judge where the ball is going and adjust accordingly as soon as it leaves the kicker’s foot. Rams special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn emphasized this point, noting that returners need to be able to cover a lot of ground and have a great jump off the bat, similar to center fielders in baseball.
The new kickoff rules have reduced the hang time from an average of 4.2 seconds to around two seconds, forcing returners to be prepared to catch the ball on the run. This means that players like Rams running back Boston Scott, who possesses the skills needed for the new kickoff strategy, will be crucial in adapting to the rule changes. It will be interesting to see how teams adjust their tactics and personnel to capitalize on these changes, as it could provide a significant advantage to those who can efficiently navigate the new kickoff rules.
