The NFL made massive changes to their kickoff rules for this season in an effort to increase the number of kick returns. After 73% of all kickoffs were touchbacks last season, the NFL made it a priority to bring the excitement of kick returns back to the game.
At PFN, we have already identified the best kick-returner options for every team in the NFL under these new rules, but today, we specifically look at the top candidates for each club in the AFC West.
How the New NFL Kickoff Rule Will Change Returns
The NFL is adopting a rule set similar to what the XFL introduced during the league’s return, which saw kickoff-return rates skyrocket. Here are the key details:
- The kicker will kick off from the 35-yard line.
- The other 10 members of the kickoff team will line up at the returning team’s 40-yard line.
- At least nine members of the receiving team will line up five yards away at the 35-yard line.
- Up to two returners will line up in the “landing zone” (between the 20-yard line and the goal line).
- Only the kicker and returners can move before the ball hits the ground or the returner within the landing zone.
- The ball will be placed at the 30-yard line if it lands in the end zone.
- Any kick that hits the landing zone must be returned.
- If the ball lands inside the 20-yard line and rolls into the end zone, it must be returned or downed (which results in the ball being placed at the 20-yard line).
- If a kick fails to reach the landing zone or goes out of bounds, the receiving team takes possession at its 40-yard line.
- No fair catches are allowed.
The hope is the new rule will decrease violent, high-speed collisions by forcing players to line up closely and remain still until the return begins. Additionally, kickers likely will try to avoid kicking the ball into the end zone, resulting in an uptick in returns.
The hybrid kickoff rule change proposal has been approved by @NFL clubs for the 2024 season. 👇 pic.twitter.com/DggRekG3mo
— NFL Football Operations (@NFLFootballOps)
The new kickoff rule should provide an ideal balance of entertainment for the fans and reduce injury risk for the players.
Given the reduced injury risk, multiple special teams coordinators have talked about allowing starters and even star players to return kicks.
Who Is the Best Return Option for Each AFC West Team?
Denver Broncos: Marvin Mims Jr.
Marvin Mims Jr. was one of the Broncos’ lone bright spots last season. The rookie showcased his game-breaking speed at both wide receiver and as a returner. He averaged 26.5 yards per kick return and ran one back for a touchdown, so he’s the obvious choice to handle these duties in 2024.
Kansas City Chiefs: Kadarius Toney
Although Kadarius Toney hasn’t returned any kickoffs in the NFL, he did in college. It’s possible he’ll get the opportunity to be Kansas City’s lead returner in 2024. While many will want to see rookie wide receiver Xavier Worthy returning kicks, Toney’s skill set is tailor-made for the new environment.
Las Vegas Raiders: Tre Tucker
Tre Tucker didn’t return any kickoffs for the Raiders as a rookie, but he could be the team’s top option this year. Tucker is a speedster who returned 67 total kickoffs in college at Cincinnati. He averaged 24.9 yards per return for the Bearcats, including two return touchdowns.
Los Angeles Chargers: Derius Davis
Similar to Turpin for the Cowboys, Derius Davis is an undersized wide receiver with explosive ability as a returner. While he averaged just 22.0 yards per return during his rookie season, he showcased his explosiveness as a punt returner and should flourish in 2024.
