NFL kickoff returns are back in a big way. At least, they are in theory.
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Through six weeks, teams have already logged 764 kickoff returns, a massive jump from recent seasons when touchbacks ruled the day. The league's new "dynamic" kickoff rule was designed to bring life back to one of football's most forgotten plays. So far, it's delivered more action, more field position swings, and a lot more chances for something special to happen.
There's just one problem. Nobody's actually taking it to the house, as noted by Michael David Smith of Pro Football Talk.
The only kickoff return touchdown this season belongs to Patriots returner Antonio Gibson, who went 90 yards against the Dolphins in Week Two. That's it. One touchdown out of 764 returns — easily the lowest rate in NFL history.
Last season, under the same rule, there were 920 kickoff returns and seven touchdowns. The year before, when kickoffs were practically an afterthought, there were only 587 returns. And four of them still went all the way.
It could just be an early-season statistical fluke, or it might show how special-teams coaches have already adjusted to the new setup. Kickers are getting creative with placement, and coverage units seem to be closing lanes faster than ever.
Whatever the reason, the NFL's "dynamic" kickoff has made the play more active, but not necessarily more electric. Fans wanted chaos, drama, and game-changing moments. For now, they've mostly just gotten more returns — and not much scoring to go with them.
