Kickoffs in the NFL are going to look very different in 2024. And maybe beyond.

There were trick plays, clutch performances and plenty of high drama as Kansas City rallied for a 25-22 overtime win against San Francisco. The one thing missing — a single kickoff return.

The concussion rate fell 43% from the previous three years and there were the fewest lower-extremity strains on kick return plays since 2018. The return rate has increased to 45.1% in the ...