When the NFL announced new kickoff rules for 2024, I was excited about the potential to bring action to an aspect of the game that had become stale. Almost three out of four kickoffs in 2023 resulted in touchbacks. Now, the percentages have flipped. In the 2024 pre-season, nearly 80 percent of kickoffs have led to returns. But after watching the Steelers in August, they should do the unthinkable this season and live in their fears. The touchback could be Pittsburgh’s best friend in 2024.
The rules of kickoffs changed so that a touchback brings the ball to the 30-yard line.