The 2024 NFL season promises to be refreshing for many teams, bringing hope, optimism, and new rule changes. Among these, the new kickoff rule stands out as a significant game-changer, likely to add more excitement from the opening kickoff.
Historically, the opening kickoff often resulted in a fair catch, but this season, that is set to change. Players like Rams wide receiver Tutu Atwell are eager to embrace the new rule, which promises a more dynamic start to games.
Atwell, speaking with the media, including Rams.com senior staff writer Stu Jackson, expressed his enthusiasm for being part of the kickoff team under the new rule.
“When I found out about the new rule, it was like, ‘man, dang, I could… knowing you got guys coming down full speed, but they gotta wait till I catch the ball?'” Atwell said. “It’s gonna be dangerous. I’ll take a chance at that this year.”
This new rule could benefit players like Atwell, who have occasionally struggled on offense, by providing them with more opportunities to shine. According to the NFL, the new format will see the ball kicked from the kicking team’s 35-yard line, with every player on the kicking team (except the kicker) lined up with at least one foot on the returning team’s 40-yard line. The returning team must have at least nine players in a “setup zone” between its 35-yard and 30-yard lines, with up to two returners in the “landing zone” between the goal line and the 20-yard line.
This setup is expected to create more action from the opening kickoff, offering more scoring opportunities and allowing speedy players like Atwell to thrive. Entering the season as WR4, Atwell might be utilized by the Rams and special teams coach Chase Blackburn to maximize his potential under the new rule.
