Unexpected returns

In March, the NFL changed the kickoff touchback rule so that offenses start with the ball on the 25-yard line instead of the 20. The hope was that the change would reduce the number potential injuries on kickoffs, but the early numbers suggest teams are more willing to cover kickoffs than cede an extra 5 yards to opponents. Here are the teams that are on pace to cover a high number of kickoffs this season. Team Houston San Francisco N.Y. Jets Oakland Minnesota x-most in team history Kickoffs covered in 2015 40 23 49 35 40 Kickoffs covered in 2016 11 8 8 6 6 On pace to cover in 2016 88-x 64 64 48 48 Most since