The 2024 NFL season is set to introduce an exciting enhancement to the kickoff rules, aimed at enhancing the overall enjoyment of the game. This new guideline brings significant changes, primarily requiring players to align closer to the kick returner, which is designed to minimize high-speed collisions that can lead to injuries. This shift not only promises to make the game safer but also more dynamic, potentially leading to more thrilling and engaging plays during kickoffs. Fans can look forward to witnessing how this alteration influences game strategies and player performances throughout the season.

Prior to the commencement of voluntary OTA practices for the Dallas Cowboys earlier this month, special teams coach John Fassel addressed the media regarding the implications of the new NFL kickoff rule on team practices, player roles, and overall kicking strategies. Drawing inspiration from the XFL kickoff format, Fassel acknowledged that many aspects of the new rule remain “unknown,” suggesting that teams will engage in extensive experimentation. This adaptation process will be critical, as coaches and players work to discover effective strategies that leverage the new kickoff dynamics, creating a fascinating narrative for the upcoming season.

“I think it’s all unknown, which is kind of the cool part, for me and hopefully for everybody else is let’s just see what happens.”

With the new kickoff rule presenting opportunities for game-changing plays, teams must be thoroughly prepared when the season kicks off. The race is on to determine which teams can adapt to these changes most swiftly, and the Cowboys are taking proactive steps to refine their kickoff strategies. Coach Fassel emphasized that the team is prioritizing kickoffs and kickoff returns during OTA practices, a shift from previous years when the initial focus was typically on punting. This increased emphasis on kickoffs will extend into training camp and the preseason, where teams will allocate more practice time—significantly more than the previous practice seasons—to experiment with different personnel and refine their kickoff and kick return playbooks.

A particularly intriguing aspect of the new kickoff rule is its potential impact on various special teams positions. It’s anticipated that returners like KaVontae Turpin and possibly Deuce Vaughn will encounter more opportunities to make significant returns, thereby adding greater value to the team. However, the question remains: what implications does this new rule have for the other players involved in special teams? As the need to sprint the full length of the field to tackle the kick returner diminishes, the emphasis may shift from sheer speed to qualities such as power, strength, and tackling ability. This change could provide opportunities for players previously overlooked for special teams roles, opening the door for defensive linemen who excel in strong tackling.

Coach Fassel highlighted several players who may benefit from this rule change, including Marshawn Kneeland, Junior Fehoko, and Chauncey Golston. These athletes are eager to establish their presence in the defensive line rotation this season, and with limited playing time available, special teams could become a critical avenue for them to showcase their skills and make impactful plays, potentially turning the tide in key matchups.

On the kickoff return front, while Fassel does not view the play strictly as a zone-run type, he does acknowledge that deploying larger players to block for the returner could be a crucial strategy. This may result in more offensive linemen and tight ends on the field during kickoff returns, with players like Luke Schoonmaker being prime candidates. Schoonmaker is currently competing for the TE2 position, but his blocking abilities will be essential for his chances of making an impact in this role. There is a strong likelihood that we will see Schoonmaker on the field, actively blocking for kickoff returns this season, adding another layer to the special teams strategy.

The player poised to undergo the most significant transformation this season is undoubtedly kicker Brandon Aubrey. The new guideline mandates that kicks must land within the “landing zone,” specifically between the goal line and the 20-yard line. Any kick that travels further results in a touchback, placing the ball at the 30-yard line, while shorter kicks lead to a dead play at the 40-yard line. Although some teams may opt for touchbacks, it appears that Coach Fassel anticipates Aubrey will aim for the landing zone, pushing the boundaries of his kicking strategy.

Aubrey will need to hone his focus on precision and control rather than merely kicking the ball as far as possible. This skill requires a great deal of finesse to ensure the ball lands at a specific distance. Fassel noted that this might also encourage kicking teams to experiment with various kick types, ultimately presenting challenges for return teams akin to the strategies employed by pitchers in baseball. Moreover, Aubrey’s background in soccer might provide an additional advantage in mastering this technique, allowing him to contribute significantly to the Cowboys’ special teams.

While there is uncertainty regarding what to expect from kickoffs this season, one thing is clear: there will be increased opportunities for players to demonstrate their value on special teams. The unfolding of these dynamics with new personnel and innovative strategies will be intriguing to watch. Which teams will crack the code first? Although it’s speculative, the Cowboys may have an edge, given that their coordinator is a strong advocate for this rule change.