Three Patriots special teams players say they look forward to playing with the NFL’s new kickoff rules.
Starting this season, teams are no longer allowed to use a fair catch during kickoffs. Returners will line up in a landing zone between the endzone and 20 yard line and must return any kick that hits in the zone.
“I think it’s a challenge but it’s fun because it forces guys as kickers to be athletes and take that ball striking and body control into a factor,” Patriots kicker Chad Ryland said. “We’re trying to put the ball between the goal line and the 20 so it offers a lot more creativity.