When the NFL returns in 2024, things will be different. A new kickoff regulation will go into force, potentially leading to significant changes around the league. Bubba Ventrone, the Cleveland Browns’ special teams coordinator, has been excited to put on the pads and see how the change looks, and he is not alone.
Other franchises, such as the Kansas City Chiefs, are already devising strategies. The two-time defending champions intend to give safety Justin Reid a try at being the kickoff specialist. Their reasoning makes sense, given that the new regulation allows the kicker and returner to move before the ball is touched.
This means kickers will be more involved in defending returns, which is why Kansas City’s desire to add another defensive member to the roster is brilliant. D’Anthony Bell provides the Browns with a similar option.
Dustin Hopkins, the Browns’ kicker, had a hamstring injury last December. Hopkins suffered an injury while attempting to make a tackle on a kick return during their victory over the Houston Texans. Punter Corey Bojorquez stepped in but also sustained an injury. That created an opportunity for Bell, who kicked the ball 42 yards to the Houston 23 and made the tackle at the 32, restricting the return man to nine yards.
Bell later explained that he used to kick in high school and was asked during the game whether he could come in and finish the job. He performed admirably given his lack of preparation time and could have provided even more if he had been able to focus on it during practices.
Ventrone hasn’t mentioned attempting to get Bell or any other defensive work as a kickoff specialist, but given Hopkins’ two seasons on the injured reserve, it might be worth looking into.
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