Special Teams Take Center Stage in NFL: A Resurgence in Blocked Kicks and Returns

In a surprising turn of events during Week 3 of the NFL season, five blocked kicks occurred in a single day, marking the first time this has happened since 2006. This sudden uptick in special teams activity has sparked discussions among players, coaches, and analysts alike, raising questions about the evolving dynamics of the game. Last season, the league recorded only 18 blocked field goals throughout the entire year, making this recent trend particularly noteworthy.

The Shift in Special Teams Dynamics

The resurgence of special teams as a focal point in the NFL can be attributed to several factors. According to league insiders, the increase in blocked kicks is closely linked to the growing trend of kickers attempting field goals from longer distances. As kickers adapt to these longer attempts, they often employ a lower trajectory, making it easier for defenders to penetrate and block the kicks.

Rams head coach Sean McVay, whose team suffered a loss partly due to two blocked field goals by kicker Joshua Karty, acknowledged the role of the Philadelphia Eagles’ defense in creating these opportunities. “On both of those kicks, we were just a little bit high with our pad level,” McVay explained. “We didn’t execute with the techniques and fundamentals that we’re capable of.”

The Mechanics Behind Blocked Kicks

League sources suggest that special teams coaches are increasingly focusing on creating interior push by utilizing more athletic and physically imposing players. “They’re putting big, athletic guys out there who can jump,” one source noted. This strategy aims to counteract the trend of kickers driving the ball more aggressively, as opposed to the traditional “rainbow kicks” that were easier to defend against.

The implications of this shift are significant. With kickers now attempting longer field goals, the likelihood of blocks from the middle of the defense has increased. This change not only affects the outcome of individual games but also highlights the evolving strategies within special teams play.

A New Era of Kickoff Returns

In addition to the rise in blocked kicks, another trend has emerged: an increase in kickoff returns. The NFL’s decision to move touchbacks from the 30 to the 35-yard line two years ago has led to a dramatic decrease in touchback rates, plummeting from 64.3% in 2024 to just 17% this season. This shift has prompted teams to experiment with various kicking techniques, including line drives and knuckle-ball kicks, to make it more challenging for returners.

“The dirty ball that hits the ground and checks up, making it hard to handle and goes into the end zone is the kick everyone is trying to master,” an NFL source explained. This new approach aims to maximize the potential for returns, thereby increasing the excitement and unpredictability of the game.

Special Teams: A Neglected Aspect of the Game?

Despite the recent focus on special teams, some teams have been criticized for their lack of investment in this crucial area. A former NFL special teams coordinator pointed out that certain organizations, including the Rams, have consistently struggled with special teams issues. “They do not work on special teams,” the coordinator stated. “They do not invest in players or put an emphasis on that as an organization. Track the last few seasons; they lose at least three games a year directly because of their special teams.”

This observation raises questions about the long-term implications of neglecting special teams. As the game evolves, teams that fail to prioritize this aspect may find themselves at a competitive disadvantage.

The Impact of Coaching Changes

The changing landscape of special teams can also be attributed to shifts in coaching personnel. As older coaches retire or leave the league, younger, less experienced coaches are stepping in. This transition may lead to a decline in the emphasis placed on special teams, as newer coaches may not have the same level of expertise or appreciation for its importance.

“My theory is that in the last few years, as the kickoff phase of the game became irrelevant, teams stopped building that part of the roster,” the former coordinator noted. This lack of focus on special teams could have far-reaching consequences, particularly as the league continues to evolve.

Conclusion: A New Era for Special Teams

The recent surge in blocked kicks and kickoff returns signals a significant shift in the NFL’s approach to special teams. As teams adapt to new strategies and techniques, the importance of this often-overlooked aspect of the game is becoming increasingly clear. With the potential for game-changing plays on special teams, fans can expect to see more excitement and unpredictability in the weeks to come.

As the 2025 NFL season unfolds, it will be fascinating to observe how teams respond to these trends and whether they choose to invest more resources into their special teams units. The evolution of the game continues, and special teams are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping its future.