NFL Kickoff Rules: Innovations and Impact on the Game
NFL Kickoff Rules: Innovations and Impact on the Game The Evolution of Kickoff Rules In recent seasons, the NFL has implemented changes to kickoff rules to enhance player safety while keeping the excitement of the game intact. These rule revisions have not only impacted how teams strategize during games but have also led to innovative kicking techniques that players are now adopting to navigate the new rules. New Kicking Techniques: The Skyballs, Diveballs, and Knuckleballs Kickers have started to develop various techniques to adapt to the new kickoff rules. Skilled specialists are now employing skyballs , diveballs , and knuckleballs to ensure their kicks remain effective. The skyball aims to gain height for optimal hang-time, while the diveball offers a lower trajectory to minimize return opportunities. Meanwhile, knuckleballs are primarily used to confuse returners due to their unpredictable flight paths. According to the NFL, about 77.7 percent of kickoffs are bein...