In a recent game against the Green Bay Packers, the Houston Texans' kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn took advantage of a unique kickoff rule that allowed him to kick from the 50-yard-line after a penalty on the Packers. This strategic move resulted in a kickoff that went out of bounds, ultimately giving the Texans a better field position than a standard touchback would have provided. The situation highlighted how the new kickoff rules can be leveraged by teams to gain an advantage on special teams, particularly in windy conditions.

In Week 5 of the 2024 NFL season, the Washington Commanders showcased a dominant performance against the Cleveland Browns, securing their fourth consecutive victory. The Commanders' defense was particularly impressive, limiting the Browns to just 212 total yards. Other notable games included the Houston Texans edging out the Buffalo Bills with a last-minute field goal and the Jacksonville Jaguars narrowly defeating the Indianapolis Colts to avoid an 0-5 start. The week was filled with playful trolling from teams, highlighting their victories over rivals.

After four weeks of the NFL season, the new kickoff rules have shown both promise and challenges. The league's return rate has increased to 29%, a significant rise from 17% in 2023, but still below historical averages. Coaches are experimenting with strategies, yet many prefer the certainty of touchbacks, leading to a high percentage of kickoffs not being returned. The league is monitoring injury data and considering further adjustments to the rules to enhance excitement and safety.

After four weeks of the NFL season, the new kickoff rules have led to a notable increase in kickoff return rates, although they remain below historical averages. Coaches are experimenting with creative approaches, but many still prefer the certainty of touchbacks. The league is monitoring the impact of these changes, particularly regarding player safety and return strategies. The overall consensus is that while there may be a modest rise in returns as the season progresses, further adjustments to the rules may be necessary to achieve the desired return rates.

Texans kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn was not activated from IR for Sunday's game against the Jets. Matt Ammendola will kick again for Houston.

The Texans have re-signed kicker Matt Ammendola, who will play in Sunday's game against the Broncos. Ammendola has missed all three of his field goal attempts in the past two weeks, but two of them were from 50+ yards. Kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn is expected to return for Week 14 after dealing with a quad injury.

Texans kicker Ka'imi Fairbairn suffered a quad injury during the game against the Bucs and was unable to continue. Running back Dare Ogunbowale took over as the team's kicker for the remainder of the game.