Are you ready for some kickoffs?
The NFL is trying its hardest to keep the play relevant in the modern game while reducing the possibility of significant injury, and the latest rule changes are largely being met with optimism by coaches around the league. One such individual is Green Bay Packers special teams coordinator Ron Zook, who sees the changes as being a positive step forward.
In fact, Zook thinks more kicks will be returned this season as a result of the changes. If so, that would be a substantial change; last year, the Packers returned just 35 of 85 kickoffs (including one by Kyler Fackrell), while Mason Crosby’s 66 kickoffs (not including two onside attempts) resulted in just 30 returns.