The Detroit Lions have had a notably quiet season when it comes to kick returns, having returned just 13 kicks all year. However, that trend could change this week when they face the Washington Commanders in their Divisional Round playoff game.
The NFL’s change in kickoff rules this season was intended to encourage more returns, and on some level, it has worked. According to ESPN, the touchback rate has dropped from 73% in 2023 to 64.3% this season. Despite this, the rate remains higher than in any previous year since at least 2000. By mid-season, it became clear that many teams preferred to kick the ball into the end zone and let the opposing offense start at the 25-yard line.
This strategy has been evident with the Lions, who have only returned 13 kicks this season, opting to kneel whenever the ball landed in the end zone. That could soon change, however, as they face a unique challenge in the Washington Commanders.
The Commanders, unlike most teams, have been one of the few to continue playing aggressive coverage on kickoffs. Washington has allowed 73 kick returns this year—16 more than the next closest team. While they’ve given up two kick return touchdowns (both to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 12, one of which was a rare onside kick), the Commanders still rank ninth in the league for kick return average allowed, at just 26.5 yards per return. They’ve also recovered two fumbles on kickoffs, more than any other team.
Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp holds high regard for Washington’s unit. According to Fipp’s own data, the Commanders are the best special teams unit in the NFL.
“According to my metrics, they’re the best in the NFL, this Washington team, on special teams,” Fipp said. “These guys are really good. They do a great job really in all phases, punt, punt return, kickoff, kickoff return. Their special teams coordinator is a guy that I respect a lot, both personally and professionally, Larry Izzo.”
However, Fipp is excited about the chance to return kicks against Washington.
“It’s great. We’ll take them, for sure,” Fipp said. “We’re excited, let’s see what we can get.”
The Lions are in a good position for kick returns with the return of Kalif Raymond, their primary returner and a second-team All-Pro, who was recently activated after a brief stint on injured reserve due to a foot injury. While Raymond excels as a punt returner, he also adds a new dynamic to the Lions’ kick return game.
“Having him back there, there’s nothing like that,” Fipp said. “He’s an explosive player. He’s super competitive, you can feel his energy and urgency on those returns last game.”
Though the sample size is small, the Lions currently rank second in the NFL for kick return average, with 31.4 yards per return. It will be interesting to see if the Commanders continue their strategy or if Detroit’s special teams will make the most of the opportunity come Saturday night.
