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Darren Rizzi advocates for NFL rule change on kickoff holders

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 2, 2026, 11:31 AM

Last updated Oct 2, 2026

Darren Rizzi advocates for NFL rule change on kickoff holders

Summary

Darren Rizzi, Broncos special teams coach, is pushing for a change in NFL rules regarding kickoff holders. Rizzi stated that most special teams coordinators agree that holders should only be used in windy conditions, as the current rule allows teams to gain an unfair advantage by angling the ball. The use of holders to change kick trajectories was highlighted by the Eagles' Week 2 game. Rizzi noted that the intent of the rule was misused, and he expects the NFL to address the issue, similar to past modifications.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Rizzi says league coaches support limiting holder use to windy conditions.
•Current rule allows holders to create kick advantages on normal days.
•Rizzi expects the NFL to revise the rule following past administrative changes.
•Eagles' Week 2 game highlighted concerns over holder usage.
•Misapplication of the rule is viewed as a problem within special teams.

Latest Updates

11:31 AMYahoo Sports — Darren Rizzi: Special teams coaches want NFL to change rule for holders on kickoffs

What they're saying

"
Broncos special teams coach Darren Rizzi says his colleagues around the league almost all agree that holders should be allowed on kickoffs only if the wind is blowing the ball off the tee, and not to give the kicking team an advantage by placing the ball at an unusual angle.
— Yahoo Sports

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