US EditionNFL Sees Surge in Returns with Dynamic Kickoff
The new kickoff format increased returns to 79.3%, the highest since 2006, but onside kick recoveries remain below 5%, prompting talks of alternative possession methods.
- Through Week 7, the NFL recorded 877 kick returns with a 79.3% return rate, the highest since 2006 and second-most return yards this season.
- NFL owners approved making the dynamic kickoff permanent in April and moved touchback placement from the 30 to the 35 to boost returns.
- Jeff Miller noted the preseason saw just two concussions and no ACL injuries despite 77% of kicks being returned, and officials say formation changes have slowed speeds and blocks.
- Troy Vincent raised concerns that less than 5% onside recovery has owners considering Denver and Philadelphia proposals for alternatives like a long fourth-down play.
- Season-Ending wounds to Malik Nabers at MetLife Stadium and Miles Killebrew at Acrisure Stadium have reignited debate about surfaces, and Dawn Aponte said the league tracks hardness, traction and injury restitution.
48 Articles
48 Articles
Montana Standard
NFL sees surge in returns with dynamic kickoff
NEW YORK — The NFL is pleased by an increase in returns as a result of adjustments to the so-called dynamic kickoff, with more plays and fewer injuries, though a change could eventually be coming to onside kicks.
Associated Press News
NFL sees a surge in returns with the new dynamic kickoff. Onside kicks remain a concern
The NFL is pleased with an increase in kickoff returns because of recent rule changes. The league reports 877 returns this season, a rate of 79.3% that is the highest since 2006 through the first seven weeks.
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NFL is considering a radical rule change for the onside kick
Dec 11, 2011; Denver, CO, USA; General view of a NFL logo on a communications center inside Sports Authority Field before the start of the game between the Chicago Bears and the Denver Broncos. The Broncos defeated the Bears 13-10. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports The NFL has made significant changes to its kickoff play in recent years, and it is possible another one could be implemented following the 2025 season. NFL executive VP o…
NFL looking into another major change
Last season, the NFL made a drastic change to its kickoff format, rolling out the dynamic kickoff in an attempt to both encourage more kickoff returns and limit the number of injuries that occur on kickoffs. While those goals have been achieved, it has seemingly created a new problem that the league would like to solve. While kickoff returns are up since the rollout of the new dynamic kickoff, onside kick recoveries are down. As Pro Football Tal…
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