Las Vegas Raiders experimenting with interesting approach for kickoffs

Mike Moraitis

Las Vegas Raiders experimenting with interesting approach for kickoffs image

With the NFL changing the kickoff rules once again in 2024, the Las Vegas Raiders are experimenting with different ways they can change their approach to make it more effective.

One of the ways is introducing an extra tackler into the mix, and the Raiders are doing that by actually utilizing a defensive player at the position in training camp.

On Thursday, Las Vegas deployed at least 2024 fifth-round pick and linebacker Tommy Eichenberg, fellow linebacker Luke Masterson, undrafted free-agent defensive back Phalen Sanford and cornerback Jack Jones at kicker.

With the new kickoff format, the Raiders are one of several teams across the league trying out using different defenders to kick the ball to give kickoff coverage another tackler on the field," Levi Edwards of Raiders.com wrote. "A few players seen kicking off were Eichenberg, Luke Masterson, Phalen Sanford and Jack Jones."

After practice, Jones showed no shortage of confidence that he can get the job done if asked.

"I'm an athlete. In my head I believe I can do everything at any position," he said. "I just go out there and just do it and it falls how it falls."

As Edwards notes, what the Raiders are trying isn't rare, as other teams are taking a look at that approach, also. Whether or not anyone follows through with it remains to be seen, but it's at least worth a shot.

Mike Moraitis

Mike Moraitis Photo

After cutting his teeth with Bleacher Report, Mike Moraitis has covered the Los Angeles Rams and Tennessee Titans for FanSided, and the Titans and New York Giants for USA TODAY Sports Media Group. On top of his duties with Sporting News, Mike is the managing editor and lead writer for Titans Wire.