Madden 19 Kickoff Return Tips: How To Return Kicks Or Punts In Madden 19
In the Madden 19, returning kicks and punts can be a crucial skill to help your offense obtain great field position. In some cases, a return specialist may even find open room to take off and take it to the end zone for a score. There’s been a lot of recent changes in the NFL as far as returns go, but it’s still possible to master the kick and punt game in Madden. Here’s our Madden 19 kick return guide with tips for how to return those punts and kicks on the field.
Madden 19 Kick & Punt Return New Rules
In the past, players could get a nice running start on the field to return a kick. That’s not the case with the new NFL rules as players must wait around the 34-yard line to catch the ball. From there, it’s either call a fair catch or take off running.
In addition, the player with the return has no players blocking for them for the first 15 yards. That makes things trickier since the game has that all included. A good tip is to have a decent blocker in the second return spot to make sure your return man isn’t taken down fast.
Madden 19 Kick & Punt Return controls
Before the kick or punt: You’ll need to select “Return Middle,” “Return Left,” or “Return Right” ahead of the kickoff or punt. “Return Middle” is the optimal choice. As seen below, each of these choices has a different controller button. If it doesn’t show up as an option press Square twice on PS4 or X twice on Xbox One to audible as the kick is happening.
To run with the ball: Wait for your player to catch the ball, or if it is kicked to a spot on the field, use the directional sticks on your controller to get to the ball. The directional sticks are also used to move your player forward down the field.
To sprint with the ball: Hold R2 on the PS4 while moving. Hold RT on the Xbox One controller, or L-Shift on a PC keyboard (unless you’re using a controller).
To signal for a fair catch: Hold the triangle button down on your PS4 controller until the receiver waves his arm or kneels the ball down. On the Xbox One controller hold the Y button for the same result. Use this in instances where you are in the endzone catching the ball. Also use it if the defense seems to be closing in fast. This is helpful if you prefer to start at the 20-yard line instead of farther back.
Madden 19 Kickoff & Punt Return Tips
Consider looking over your roster to find the optimal player in terms of speed for returning kicks. That will be your best bet for getting a solid return. In addition, keep that tip in mind about putting a good blocker in the second return spot to help out.
Returning a kick involves a similar control as running the ball with the sprint and directional sticks. A general tip is to always run in straight lines as your player’s speed decreases with the side-to-side change in directions. So swerving too much on a return can decrease your speed and overall yards gained.
Using all the special moves you might use on running plays doesn’t apply as much when returning a kick or punt. Those will only come into play if you manage to exploit a hole in the special teams’ defense.
If that happens you may come into a situation with a player you’re trying to beat. Use the special rushing moves there. Hit R2 or RT depending on your controller to sprint when there’s a hole and try to make it to the endzone.
For those who want to try out a technique for bigger returns or touchdowns, check out this video tip below.
Check out our Madden 19 kicking guide for help with kicking field goals or extra points. Also, see our guide on upgrading players for Ultimate Team or Franchise Mode.
For more of our tips and news check out our Madden 19 page here.