The upcoming NFL season features a few rule changes that will significantly impact 2024, starting with the first play of every game.
The league adopted a new format for kickoffs, which was based on a version used in the XFL. As seen in the XFL, it brought action back to a play that has led to many touchbacks in the NFL in recent seasons.
New Orleans Saints defensive back and special teamer J.T. Gray recently shared his thoughts on the change. Speaking with NFL Network's Steve Wyche on Thursday's The Insiders, Gray noted the Saints have been adjusting to the new rule since it was approved.
"So, that's pretty interesting (the new kickoff rule). Just going in this year in OTAs, we have been practicing that since Day 1," Gray told Wyche. "Since implementing the new rule, I feel like it's changing the value of the special teams. I feel like it's going to be a great thing because you are going to get action in every first play of the game. I feel like that's going to be a great thing for the NFL and a great thing for the fans to see."
Gray has particular reason to be thrilled about the kickoff tweaks, given he was an All-Pro and Pro Bowler as a special teamer in 2021. The new rules will only provide him more opportunity to apply his skills, and New Orleans also has plenty of firepower beyond Gray with Rashid Shaheed on its roster. In 2023, Shaheed earned his first Pro Bowl nod as a returner. Shaheed had 25 punt returns for 339 yards and one touchdown while contributing 18 kickoff returns for 384 yards in 15 games.
There's been plenty of positive chatter from other players on the new kickoff rule, as well. Cowboys special teamer C.J. Goodwin said it will be "fun" with more returns expected to occur. Other position players like Chiefs safety Justin Reid are even trying to get involved by kicking under the new format.
With New Orleans' training camp set to start for veterans on July 23, Gray, along with special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi, will continue to make adjustments. If all things go well for the new kickoff rule in 2024, expectant contributors like Gray, Goodwin and Reid could see the NFL renew it for the 2025 season.
