Rule for Kick Off Return

[onlylabs]

On a pooch-type kick towards a sideline and NO fair catch is made is the kick-off return player afforded any protection from being hit before the ball hits the ground; Not an onside kick but one high in the air? If asked confusingly as kick-off team member can I hit the kick-off return receiver while he is waiting for the ball to come down BEFORE he actually touches it? Again no fair catch sign given.

 

[FBRef]

No, you cannot.

A potential receiver is always protected from be contacted or interfered with prior to having an opportunity to catch the kick.

A fair catch signal protects him AFTER he catches the ball.

 

[onlylabs]

Thank you.

 

[DinwiddieProud]

No, you cannot.

A potential receiver is always protected from be contacted or interfered with prior to having an opportunity to catch the kick.

A fair catch signal protects him AFTER he catches the ball.

Does this hold true if the ball has contacted the ground after the kick?

 

[White hat]

Nope, once a kick is grounded, there is no fair catch. That's why a good onside kick hits the ground then bounces high.

Even so. there are restrictions on blocking receivers in the 10 yard neutral zone prior to the ball leaving the zone or touching a member of the receiving team.