The NFL's decision to change kickoff rules for the 2024 season was a bold one — and so far, it's paying off. The goal? More returns, fewer injuries. And with the numbers we're seeing through Week 13, it's hard to argue with the results.
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Kickoff returns are up to 32 percent this season, a solid jump from the 20 percent return rate in 2023. That's the kind of increase the league was hoping for when it pushed the new rules into play.
What's even more encouraging is the drop in injuries. NFL executive vice president Jeff Miller updated reporters at the league meetings this week, pointing out that not only are concussions down, but overall injuries on kickoffs have plummeted to levels that resemble the injury rate for plays from scrimmage.
That's huge. The kickoff play has long been one of the most dangerous in football, but these changes have made a noticeable difference in player safety — something the league has been desperately trying to improve for years.
While the rule changes are only in place for this season, the positive data makes it seem likely that they'll stick around. Fans who enjoy seeing return specialists take one to the house can be excited, and those concerned about player health have reason to be optimistic, too.
It's a win-win for the NFL, and while it's still early, this could be a game-changer for how the league approaches one of the most perilous plays in football. It's clear that the NFL might have found the balance it was searching for.
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