As NFL teams navigate the intricacies of the league’s new kickoff rule, several players with collegiate returning experience emerged during Day 3 of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Oregon State wide receiver Anthony Gould, a 2022 All-American punt returner, was among those selected, snagged by the Colts with their first of three fifth-round picks (No. 142 overall).
“This new kickoff return rule is going to shake things up,” noted general manager Chris Ballard. “While it’s a bit of an unknown, we believe he’s an explosive player with ball-handling skills. He’s seen considerable success in college returning punts, and he’s a solid wideout. We’re eager to have him on board.”
To shed light on what to expect from kickoffs in 2024, Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason shared insights:
During this offseason, the Colts prioritized improvement in kick returns, especially after attempting just nine returns in the 2023 season due to injuries sidelining primary returners Dallis Flowers and Ashton Dulin by Week 5. Mason sees Gould’s explosive capabilities as a perfect fit for their kick return strategy, aiming to gain favorable field positions through dynamic returns.
“With the potential space constraints and altered speed dynamics in kickoff coverage, having a player with Gould’s agility and acceleration becomes paramount,” Mason explained. “He brings the skill set we need in the new kickoff landscape, resembling more of a punt returner with his swift cuts and maneuvers.”
Gould boasts an impressive record as a collegiate punt returner, averaging 16.4 yards per punt return at Oregon State, coupled with remarkable speed and acceleration demonstrated by his 4.39-second 40-yard dash and 1.49-second 10-yard split. These metrics place him in the upper echelons among all skill position players at the NFL Combine since 1999, as per MockDraftable.com.
As the NFL adjusts to the new kickoff rule, Mason anticipates ongoing adaptations and tweaks, expecting the league to refine aspects of the rule during training camp and preseason games. Although teams are currently restricted from practicing returns due to OTA regulations, the impending training camp will serve as a crucial period for teams to experiment and adapt to the rule adjustments before the regular season kicks off.
Amidst this period of transition, the Colts view Gould’s addition, alongside players like Flowers and Dulin, as pivotal in maximizing returns once the regular season commences.
“Adaptation will be key,” Mason emphasized. “Joint practices and preseason games will offer valuable opportunities to experiment with various strategies and observe the approaches of other teams. It’ll be a constant process of adjustment and learning.”
