NFL's kickoff rule change will provide exciting chances for Saints star returner Rashid Shaheed

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Adam Holt | Last updated 3/26/24

The NFL made a massive change to special teams on Tuesday. They approved some noteworthy adjustments to kickoffs, and every player will have to take notice.

With the change on the horizon, Rashid Shaheed may get more unique opportunities to return kicks for New Orleans.

Kicking off a new era: Owners just approved the NFL Hybrid Kickoff rule, per source.

After years of tweaks turned one of the game’s most exciting moments into a “dead, ceremonial play”, the league hopes this overhaul will yield what it wants: fewer injuries and more returns. pic.twitter.com/jHLAjZJm0z
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 26, 2024

That's awesome news for the Saints.

Shaheed is arguably the best returner in football. He was a Pro Bowl PR/KR last season, and he is only improving. Shaheed is a dynamic athlete that is a spark plug on special teams and offense.

The new rule effectively allows more opportunities for returns and avoids injuries more often. Injuries were a key part of why the league wanted to adjust kickoffs because those have risen in recent years. That is no surprise when you have athletes running full speed, colliding with each other in pursuit of tackles and blocks.

Check out the new-look kickoffs below.

The NFL just passed a new kickoff rule that will look like this, per @AdamSchefter
pic.twitter.com/VcQs7QrSto
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) March 26, 2024