Former Bengals special teams savant explains how the NFL's new kickoff will look like a run play

NFL games are going to look very different when the new kickoff rules first make their appearance this upcoming season.

Instead of the kicking team flying down the field to meet the kickoff returner sprinting towards them, the art of the play will appear more methodical and slow paced.

This is said to produce more returns, and fewer injuries, which is great news for players like former Cincinnati Bengals safety and special teams captain Michael Thomas.

Thomas was a part of the Bengals' 53-man roster from 2021-22 and spent the 2023 season on the practice squad. He's been on the field for more than 1,100 total kickoffs in his career 11-year career. 

If anyone has a feel for what to expect with the new rules in place, it's the guy Cincinnati has called "Uncle Mike."

What the new kickoff return will actually look like

Since these new rules originate from the XFL, we already have visual evidence for how the returns will appear. Thomas told Bengals.com's Geoff Hobson that there's a distinct difference that will lead to the NFL's version emulating a specific type of run play.

"Unlike the XFL, where all ten guys on the return team have to be on that restraining line, we're able to back up a few guys off the ball, so you can quick set double teams," Thomas explained. "On different levels, there can be guys that can go and block on the other side, if you want to go right or left return because they're off the ball a little bit. Essentially, it looks more like a trap block as far as a running play."

A trap block in the run game involves the offensive line allowing an interior defensive lineman to get upfield before an offensive lineman comes around from the other side of the center to block him out of the point of attack. The word "trap" tells us all we need to know: it's a trap set on the defense. 

Long kickoff returns are born from the same concept. When kickoff coverage players get too far upfield and lose angles on the return man, it usually leads to explosive returns and even touchdowns. 

Despite the stark changes to a more controlled setting, Thomas believes there can still be diversity when it comes to game-planning different returns.

"What I like about the rule is it leaves room for creativity and scheming, Thomas said. "You can still run twists and games, as long as that returner can hit it, recognize it fast enough. Then he can hit full speed and full stride. Or will they have to stutter their feet because the speed guys make a play on the ball? There are so many variables, it's going to lead to a lot of excitement for the fans."

Thomas is currently a free agent at the ripe age of 34. A veteran of his expertise in this new special teams landscape shouldn't be available for too long. Maybe the Bengals will retain him once more.