Bears special teams coach criticizes Eagles' kickoff tactics
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 25, 2026, 11:37 PM
Last updated Sep 25, 2026
Bears special teams coordinator Richard Hightower expressed concerns about the Eagles' use of a holder for kickoffs prior to their Monday night game. Hightower claimed the approach alters the ball's trajectory, making it difficult for returners. He emphasized that the NFL's rule allowing a holder is intended for windy conditions and should require the ball to be placed in a tee. A conference call with special teams coaches is planned to address the usage of holders. Hightower hopes the league will clarify the rules during the ongoing season, referencing a previous instance in 2022 where a similar tactic was halted.
- •Eagles used a holder on kickoffs to adjust ball placement
- •Hightower seeks clarification on the rule intent
- •Conference call with special teams coaches is scheduled
- •Previous rule change occurred during the 2022 season
- 11:37 PMYahoo Sports — Bears ST coach says Eagles are violating intent of the rule by using holder on kickoffs
"Last week, the Eagles used a holder on their kickoffs so that the ball could be placed at an angle that affected the trajectory of the ball and made it harder for the returner to field.
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