Will NFL Kickoff Rule Benefit New England Patriots' Jalen Reagor?

NFL Owners, including New England Patriots' Robert Kraft, Pass New Kickoff Rule at Annual League Meeting

NFL owners, including New England Patriots' Robert Kraft, voted to drastically change the NFL kickoff in a controversial decision at the Annual League Meeting this week. Once one of the most exciting plays in football, only 22 percent of kicks resulted in returns last season. 

Why the significant change?  The hope is for more explosive returns with added player safety. Kickoff returns will look very different. 

The revamped kickoff format prohibits the kicking team from moving until the ball contacts or is fielded within a designated "landing zone." That zone is the area between the receiving team's goal line and its 20-yard line. Kickoffs remain at the 35-yard line but the other 10 players of the kicking unit line up at the opposing team's 40-yard line.

Jan 7, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Jalen Reagor (83)

David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

Teams are permitted to place up to two returners in the "landing zone," and returners cannot utilize a fair catch, as they could in 2023.  There will be no surprise onside kicks. Teams can attempt an onside kick in the fourth quarter, but must notify the officials first. 

Owners agreed to a one-year trial of the new format, which is borrowed heavily from what was used in the XFL spring league. 

The change certainly boosts the value of returners in the NFL. For the Patriots, Jalen Reagor and Marcus Jones could see increased their roles increase. In 2023, Reagor led the team with 221 kick return yards, including a beautiful 98-yard return for a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills.

Currently, New England is focused on the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit. With the No. 3-overall draft selection in their pocket, the Patriots are scouting and interviewing prospects with an eye on improving a few key position groups, including quarterback, running back and receiver.

The Chicago Bears are likely to select Caleb Williams with the first overall pick, and Jayden Daniels has become the consensus favorite to go No. 2 overall to the Washington Commanders. 

At pick No. 3, the Patriots could be looking at Drake Maye and J.J. McCarthy, who has skyrocketed up draft boards during the process.