A new NFL rule passed on Tuesday that will dramatically change kickoffs across the league.
The new rule is expected to reduce injuries while providing more opportunities for big returns.
Here's how kickoffs will look with the new rule.
As a result of the new rule, elite kickoff returners are instantly more valuable in the NFL.
And that means that former Tennessee Vols standout Cordarrelle Patterson shouldn't be out of a job for much longer.
Patterson, who spent the last three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons after transitioning to more of a running back role, is currently a free agent.
The market for aging hybrid running backs isn't exactly robust (Patterson just turned 33).
But now that returns are expected to be a bigger part of the game, Patterson should be a somewhat hot commodity.
The former Vol has nine career kickoff returns for a touchdown, which is an NFL record.
Patterson, who entered the NFL as a wide receiver, has struggled at times during his career with route running. But there may be no one better in the NFL at making defenders miss in the open field. Patterson would absolutely be a weapon for any team in the league with these new kickoff rules in place.
Not only will Patterson help provide better field position, but he'll be a threat to score on every kickoff.
Patterson won't be receiving a mega contract just because of the new rule, but I wouldn't be surprised to see a team sign him within the next few days.
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