Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell is embracing the new NFL kickoff rules approved at the annual meeting. The radical new rules, similar to those seen in the XFL, aim to promote more returns and reduce violent collisions on the field.
Under the new rules, touchbacks will now be marked at the 30-yard line, fair catches are not allowed, and players will have restricted movement until the ball is fielded. Last year, only 22% of kickoffs were returned leaguewide, with return plays historically having a higher injury rate than plays from scrimmage.
The Lions are prioritizing special teams and are in favor of the new rule changes. Campbell and special teams coordinator are already studying XFL returns and discussing the impacts on their scheme and personnel. These new rules could potentially impact future roster decisions for the Lions.
Campbell is excited about the coaching opportunities presented by the new rules and the unknown challenges that come with them. “I think it’s going to be interesting to see how this evolves and how this changes the game,” Campbell said.
For more information on how the Lions are adapting to the new kickoff rules, contact Dave Birkett at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter @davebirkett.
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