I remember when the National Football League first changed their kickoff rule. I was devastated. Football had always been the one thing I loved watching with my family, and it felt like something so important was being uprooted and changed.
At first, if I’m honest, I was completely against the change. I thought why fix something that isn’t broken? Kickoffs had been part of the game for so long, why take that away? I saw it as just another way the league was making football less enjoyable.
But, then again, if I dig deeper into the rule change, I should have been more understanding. Back in the day, kickoffs led to higher speed collisions, which resulted in an increased risk of concussion. Basically, the new rule was intended to make the sport safer for the players. That’s something I can totally get behind.
On top of that, since the kickoff rule changed, the NFL has adjusted other aspects of the game as well – a rule that requires players to keep their helmets on, more spotters in attendance, and an 81% decline in concussions compared to 2016.
These adjustments were necessary for the safety of the players. And, I’m sure, once the drama of the rule change changes has died down and people see the benefits, it will be a much welcomed change. In the end, it also reminds us that although our game is physical by nature, the discipline of society needs to take into account the safety of its members.
All that being said, the impacts of the rule change have been a mixed bag. On the one hand, it’s sad to see the league become more focused on safety guidelines that curtail the physicality of the game. At the same time, it’s incredibly heartwarming and reassuring that people are more consciously aware of the need for improved safety measures in sport.
If I’m being real, there’s a part of me that misses the old days and seeing those electrifying kickoffs. I think it always made the game that more exciting. But, I’d be a hypocrite to think safety isn’t a priority.
In the face of the rule change, I think the NFL has shown a remarkable commitment to the safety of their players and the game of football. It just goes to show that if we’re looking out for each other, more good can come from things like rule changes than you think.
The two teams line up and the ball is hiked, but you won’t see the player bursting downfield for the kick return like in the old days. Instead, the ball is placed at the 25 yard line and the action starts from there. It’s a time for heightened awareness and a focus on player safety, something that is a top priority for the league.
The players themselves are no doubt feeling the impact of the rule change, as most coaches assign a select group of players to be kick returners. This limits their play time and cuts opportunities for special teams players, as these spots are usually reserved for the more experienced players.
The overall effect of the rule change has been a reduction in the amount of scoring in the NFL. We don’t see the same electrifying moments we used to, and this, in my opinion is where the rule change falls short.
That said, the kickoff rule change was intended to do one thing, to make the game safer for both the players and the fans. And, from that perspective, maybe it’s a much needed move.
The NFL is evolving, and I think a lot of that evolution is in the name of protecting its players and keeping its fans safe. But, when all is said and done, it’s a change that has taken some getting used to, even if it is for the better.