79 percent of kickoffs have been returned this season, highest rate in 17 years

The NFL reports a significant increase in kickoff returns following this season's rule change, with 79 percent of kickoffs being returned. This is the highest return rate in 17 years, compared to 31 percent during the first nine weeks of the previous season. The rule change includes a "dynamic" kickoff that limits high-speed collisions, resulting in an injury rate comparable to regular scrimmage plays. Previously, kickoffs had a higher injury rate. The adjustment also involves touchbacks being placed at the 35-yard line, encouraging teams to kick the ball just short of the goal line to prevent returns reaching the 35, thus increasing return attempts. Despite the rise in returns, there have only been two kickoff return touchdowns out of 1,100 returns this season.