The NFL has introduced a groundbreaking change to the kickoff rule. It could bring significant alterations to the game—or perhaps none at all.
Jets special-teams coordinator Brant Boyer recently commented on the new formation and strategy that aims to increase live plays.
“It’s a major challenge with all these new rules,” Boyer said, according to Brian Costello of the New York Post. “It’s a wait-and-see situation, figuring out what works best, which kicks are effective, and who can execute them.”
There’s a lot of uncertainty, he added. The team has been intensely studying to determine the best approach, but the true test will come during preseason games.
Teams will need to find a balance between experimenting with the rule and keeping their game plans under wraps until the regular season.
Based on Boyer’s remarks, the Jets plan to use the preseason games to figure out the rule’s practical application.
“Everything looks good on paper, but we won’t know until we’re out there in preseason,” Boyer emphasized.
One critical question is whether teams will play the ball or opt for a touchback and start from the 30-yard line, considering the average field position might only be slightly better.
Coaches across the league will be weighing the risks and rewards of implementing the new rule, with many cautious about being the first to test it extensively.
