I like this new rule!

I wonder what kind of position players or special teamers will typically be used on this new kickoff play. Since the offense and defense line up directly against each other instead of far apart, I wonder if teams will use starting offensive and defensive linemen like they might on a field goal attempt. It seems like lining up closer together, you might see more size and less speed on the field, with players pushing to open and close holes not covering space, and the returner looking to hit the hole more than having to navigate a maze of speedy tacklers.

I think we need to balance the gain against the loss. I heard there were only three "surprise" onside kicks last season, while with over 4,000 kickoffs less than 20% had a return. Yes, the new rule eliminates the "surprise" onside, but the team can still attempt one using the old configuration by informing the refs. What is gained is that the fair catch is eliminated and with the marking of the ball at the 30 on a kick into or through the end zone, returns will become the norm as opposed to the rare exception that they had become.