One NFL Network analyst suggested an unorthodox use for a well-regarded player on the New York Jets defense.
Appearing on “Good Morning Football,” Peter Schrager theorized that New York could utilize linebacker Quincy Williams as the kicker on the NFL’s new “Dynamic Kickoff” play.
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“The Jets have a guy, Quincy Williams. He can kick. He can kick the ball 60 yards. Will we see Quincy Williams doing some kickoffs for the Jets so that you have another tackler out there to avoid this Dynamic Kickoff return?”
Interesting theory just now from @PSchrags on @gmfb regarding the new kickoff format 🤔 #Jets #JetUp pic.twitter.com/MsChlQu0rb
— El Duderino 🎳 (@RageATL26) August 9, 2024
Schrager made his comment about Williams after sharing a theory he’s been hearing around the league.
“There is a theory that a lot of these teams are going to have, on these kickoffs, some defensive players or offensive players that can kick, kick so that you have 11 different tackles out there on the coverage team instead of a kicker.” The analyst added that Kansas City Chiefs safety Justin Reid has been seen kicking off at practice.
The Dynamic Kickoff is a talking point that many have covered this offseason, but few have truly broken down extensively (Jets X-Factor being one of those few).
The new system is filled with mystery on both the kicking and returning sides. Unlike previous seasons, the kicker spot is vital as a tackler and last line of defense. Players will need to be able to get off blocks and have enough athleticism to chase down returners.
On the flip side, returners will need to have higher levels of ball carrier vision due to the nature of reading blocks on the play. Blockers will likely need to have more of a run-blocking background to open up lanes for their returners.
The NFL’s new kickoff will truly test special teams coordinators and allow the best of the best to separate themselves. New York’s Brant Boyer has plenty of opportunities to implement wrinkles that separate the Jets from their opponents.
If those wrinkles, including Quincy Williams at kicker or a unique return package, pay off, the Jets could win a handful of games based on special teams alone.
