NFL Kickoff Rule Changes Spark Excitement
The NFL experienced a historic low in kickoff returns last season, with only 22 percent of kickoffs being returned. Out of these, a meager four resulted in touchdowns. To address this downward trend and enhance the excitement of the game, the NFL has implemented substantial changes to its kickoff rules for the 2024 season. These modifications aim to incentivize players to return kickoffs while simultaneously reducing touchbacks and minimizing injury risks.
In an electrifying start to the new kickoff format during Week 1, Cardinals returner DeeJay Dallas made headlines by igniting a comeback with a dazzling 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. He skillfully maneuvered through three tackles at the 40-yard line before sprinting toward the end zone, ultimately diving past kicker Tyler Bass to secure the score. The Buffalo Bills, who were leading 31-20 with just 8:44 remaining, surely regretted their decision to kick deep. The Cardinals seized the momentum, successfully converting a two-point attempt by James Conner, which brought them within striking distance at 31-28.
This remarkable touchdown marked Dallas’ first career kickoff return in both the NFL and his collegiate career. However, he is no stranger to returning kicks, having done so throughout all three seasons in the league. Although the new kickoff rule had a slow start, the inaugural Sunday of the NFL season delivered plenty of excitement, with three kickoff returns exceeding 50 yards. In stark contrast, the entire 2023 season saw only 10 returns of 50 yards or more.
Despite the thrilling moments, the Bills managed to maintain their lead, ultimately beginning the season with a 1-0 record after defeating the Cardinals 34-28. Looking ahead, Buffalo is set to face their AFC East rival, the Miami Dolphins, on the road during Week 2 of “Thursday Night Football.”
Required reading:
- What are the new NFL kickoff rules and how do they work? Explaining the 2024 changes
- Making sense of NFL’s new kickoff rule and what it means for next season
- 2024 NFL kickoff rules could bring excitement … and chaos: ‘It’s going to be a s— show’
(Photo: Brooke Sutton / Getty Images)
