The NFL is looking forward to a significant increase in kickoff returns from the current rate of 22 percent to around 60 percent, resulting in an estimated 1,500 additional live plays per season. This change has put pressure on coaching staff to find time for special teams training during off-season work and training camp practices.
Coach Rodgers mentioned that he now spends around 60 percent of his time on kickoffs and kickoff returns, which is significantly more than previous years. The need for a change in kickoff rules was emphasized at the owners meetings as there was a possibility of kickoffs being removed from the game altogether. Players like Matt Prater recognize that the new rules will require a more strategic approach to kickoffs rather than the traditional “rip it and rip it” method.
Gannon acknowledges the need to adapt to the new rules and turn them into an advantage for the team. Rodgers supports the new rules due to their safety implications and advancement in the game. However, Gannon believes that these changes could lead to more unpredictable outcomes as players will have less experience with them.
