Quote Originally Posted by King Friday View Post
I think Nixon is far more valuable now with the new kickoff rules. It would’ve been a bad contract under the prior rules, where you should have just taken a free catch every time. Now, there is going to be value on having a returner who can make a big return, and Nixon can.
And remember, that seems to be something Lafleur values disproportionately relative to most other coaches. He often speaks about how much he loves Nixon's ability (and willingness) to run basically every kick out. Loves the way it keeps the other team off-balance, and especially loves the way it boosts the morale of his teammates. They're fired up on the sideline, excited to see one of his fullspeed runbacks, and they run on the field energized and full of momentum. Every single possession, instead of taking the first snap right after a boring touchback, we're basically starting our possession immediately following a big play - almost like taking the field after an interception. LaFleur feels very strongly that that's an important way to get a drive off to a good start.