NFL fourth‑down changes are making punts much less common this season

Punts are becoming rarer in the NFL as new kickoff rules and stronger kickers have shifted some drives toward long field goals and fourth‑down tries. Teams are using more analytics and taking more chances on fourth down.

Punts have become noticeably less common across the NFL this season. Rule changes to kickoffs and the introduction of prepared kicking balls have helped create more returns and longer field‑goal opportunities. Coaches are also more willing to try fourth‑down conversions, aided by analytics and a shift in thinking about risks. Those changes together have reduced the number of times teams choose to punt. What was reported: - The league average for punts per team per game is at a season low, reflecting fewer punts overall. - Changes to kickoffs and the use of prepared kick balls (K‑balls) have led to more returns and longer field‑goal attempts. - Teams are attempting more fourth downs and relying on analytics to guide those decisions. Summary: Fewer punts mean more plays end with field goals or fourth‑down tries, changing how possessions finish and how teams manage field position. The full effect on season outcomes and coaching strategy will be seen over time. Undetermined at this time.