With the NFL implementing new special teams rules, fans could see the New Orleans Saints use star running back Alvin Kamara to return kicks.
New Orleans Saints fans remember when Alvin Kamara broke out as a rookie as an explosive running back rushing, receiving, and, what many NFL fans may have forgot, returning. Kamara dominated on offense as a rookie, but he also had 347 kick return yards, including a 106-yard return for a score.
After that season, the star running back occasionally returned punts and kicks, with 20 total punt returns and 17 total kick returns in his career. However, Kamara has not been back to return either since 2021. His special teams coordinator recently revealed that could change in 2024.
Saints special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi recently joined Ari Meirov on the “NFL Spotlight” podcast, and he talked about how teams could strategize with the new kickoff rule. One strategy idea Rizzi laid out was using dynamic offensive players like Tyreek Hill and Alvin Kamara to return kicks late in close games.
#Saints STC Darren Rizzi says he could see players like Tyreek Hill and Alvin Kamara returning kickoffs late in games thanks to the new kickoff rule.
Full episode: https://t.co/BBfDF6Wypi https://t.co/N1YTOZQx48 pic.twitter.com/IpIrrjolB5
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) August 6, 2024
Saints could use Alvin Kamara on kick returns in close games
Again, Rizzi is the special teams coordinator in New Orleans, so this is obviously something he’s thought about, and likely an idea that’s been floated with Kamara and the offensive staff for the Saints.
The new dynamic kickoff was on display in the recent Hall of Fame game between the Chicago Bears and the Houston Texans, and the unique formation of the play is expected to decrease injuries while increasing returns.
For the first time… the Dynamic Kickoff 🙌
📺: @ProFootballHOF Game on ESPN/ABC
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/wga0LmuvtH— NFL (@NFL) August 2, 2024
With the new kickoff format, the return team will line up across the 35-yard line, with the returners about 20 yards behind. The kicking team will be lined up across the 40-yard line, five yards away from the return team. Neither side will be able to move until the ball is fielded.
With the structure, it’s easy to see how speedy guys and elite ball carriers could break free for explosive plays. Obviously, teams wouldn’t want their stars returning every kick, but putting them back there occasionally could definitely be a great chess move.
