NFL Rule Changes: Why Eliminating the Kickoff Would Be an Atrocious Decision

When I heard about this issue today, I was absolutely in shock. I fully understand that the kickoff is the most dangerous play during an NFL game as far as injuries go, and I respect the NFL trying to find a way to reduce concussions and injuries in general.

Although I disagreed with it, I understood the decision to move the kickoff up five yards in order to reduce such heavy collisions. Touchbacks off of kickoffs were up 25% this year as a result. But taking that part out of the game completely would be absolutely ridiculous, and the fact that the idea is even being tossed around is beyond me.

When thinking about other sports it is hard to make a comparison—but think if the NBA eliminated the free-throw, or if the MLB eliminated plays at the plate in order to keep catchers safe. The fact of the matter is, it should be fine for the game to be tweaked now that we have sufficient research that proves it may be necessary in order to reduce injury, but you can't completely change the game.

Devin Hester might be a Hall of Famer due to his ability to return kickoffs, and it would be an unfair advantage for teams that rely on their return game for starting field position. The rule change would create far more questions than answers. Let's break down some of them:

Where do you spot the ball? The 20? The 30? How would you decide in a game that has turned into such an explosion of offense where possession is started? There is no fair answer, no statistic that could prove a definitive answer.

What about punts? Can you still punt the ball? Or will the game turn into every team having to be like Dallas Carter in Friday Night Lights where they always go for it on fourth down.

How about onside kicks? That is an aspect that is impossible to take away. Will onside kicks be allowed, but not deep kickoffs? How would that be decided? If it's booted past the 50-yard-line would that be a penalty? Because then the game might turn into an NFL Blitz type of game where the onside kick is utilized every time. Wouldn't it be worth the risk?

This idea should be completely shuttered from offseason discussion. One rule that needs to be changed—the overtime rule. That should be at the top of the list in my opinion if rule changes are what needs to be discussed.

Like I mentioned earlier, the kickoff is the most dangerous part of the game, considering you have third string guys trying to make any impact possible for their team to move up the depth chart. But it might also be the most exciting part of the game.

Don't do it Goodell, don't do it.