Kickoffs used to be one of the most exciting plays in the NFL, but gradual rule changes have essentially eliminated them and turned them into routine touchbacks.
The league finally made a change to swing it back the other way and hopefully make the play relevant again, and one analyst is a big fan of the move.
Former wide receiver Keyshawn Johnson went on Undisputed today to discuss the NFL’s adoption of the XFL’s kickoff format, saying “this will be exciting to see.”
.@keyshawn weighs in on the NFL adopting the XFL kickoff format:
“This will be exciting to see.” pic.twitter.com/0dQdhYLIcl
— UNDISPUTED (@undisputed) March 27, 2024
For reference, the kickoff change will place everyone except the kicker on the opposite 35-yard line, which will eliminate having everyone running full speed at each other and ideally make kickoffs exciting but still safe.
Johnson noted past rule changes made with player safety in mind, first banning the wedge, and then a few years ago deciding to move the kickoff up to the 35-yard line, resulting in way more touchbacks.
He also noted that this could make returns much easier, and that blockers and gunners will not be getting a running start, meaning the returner might only have to make one cut to find open field and take it all the way to the end zone.
Johnson also pointed out he is a bit hesitant because it could be too easy and devolve the game into kickoff touchdowns left and right, saying “if it ruins the game, it’ll be a shame.”
It’s a bold change, but it’s nice to see the NFL working to bring another element of strategy back to football.
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