Rams special teams coordinator Chase Blackburn believes that the role of a kickoff returner in the NFL’s new kickoff rule is similar to that of a center fielder in baseball. He expects that with the new rule, kickoffs will be more like line drives with less hang time. This adjustment is aimed at preventing opposing returners from having enough time to catch the ball and build momentum. As a result, returners must quickly assess the direction of the ball once it leaves the kicker’s foot and make swift adjustments.
Blackburn explains that returners need to possess skills similar to center fielders, such as covering a large distance and having a strong initial reaction. Instead of waiting for a 4.2-second hang time, returners can now expect an average hang time of around two seconds. This change forces returners to be more agile and react faster to catch the ball on the run before the kickoff team can bring it down quickly.
Among the Rams’ roster, Blackburn identified running back Boston Scott as a player with the necessary skills to excel in the new kickoff format. It will be intriguing to see how NFL teams adapt to this new rule, which is considered one of the biggest changes in league history. Teams that can adjust their strategy and deploy the right personnel effectively will have a significant competitive edge in the upcoming season.