With the more news that comes out about concussions, the more the NFL is trying to get ahead of the curve and change the rules to try and limit the concussions. One of the new rules implemented this NFL offseason revolves around kickoffs and making it safer. Cowboys kicker Dan Bailey knows the rules are meant to make the game safer, but thinks it could actually result in more kickoffs, and in turn, make it more dangerous.

“Every year there’s more and more data that gives insight into how we can play safer and improve the game,” Bailey said, via the Dallas Morning News. “So, I get it and I’m all for guys playing safe because it means they are going to have long careers

“More returns could be an unintended consequence of the new rules,” Bailey said. “If eight members of the return team have to be lined up within 15 yards of the spot of kickoff, what’s to keep the kicker from just popping it right over the top? That could be dangerous. Not maybe a concussion, but guys being in a scrum trying to get to a popped-up ball and maybe getting an ankle rolled.”

The players can't start as far back on the field, which is where the Cowboys kicker sees the injuries. Kickers are going to try to find a way to get an advantage, and maybe popping it over the defense will be the way to go.

Article Continues Below
More NFL News
NFL Nike Pegasus 41, Nike Pegasus 41, Roger Goodell
NFL partners with Nike for new Pegasus 41 running shoesDominik Zawartko ·
Miami Dolphins cornerback Jalen Ramsey (5) looks on during training camp at Baptist Health Training Complex.
Adam Schefter puts timetable on Dolphins’ Jalen Ramsey tradeGuillermo Guajardo ·
Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid on the SiriusXM radio set at the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center.
Chiefs sued by former NFL player, citing racial discriminationBenedetto Vitale ·
New England Patriots wide receiver Jakobi Meyers (16) warms up before the start of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Gillette Stadium.
Raiders’ Jakobi Meyers earns prestigious tag that’ll leave Patriots fans screamingJaren Kawada ·
Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson walks the field during rookie minicamp at Halas Hall.
Bears rumors: DJ Moore, Cole Kmet on thin ice with Ben JohnsonBenedetto Vitale ·
Nick Chubb, Texans
2 hottest Texans takes coming out of 2025 minicampDouglas Fritz ·

It will be a big story this year how the new rules work because if the injuries continue, there is a good chance the kickoffs could be taken away altogether soon.

The NFL needs to find a way to limit injuries, especially head injuries and limiting kickoffs could be the way to do it.