Super Bowl 2026 features Rashid Shaheed, one of the NFL‘s most impactful kickoff returners, raising questions about the possibility of him scoring on the opening kickoff. The Seattle Seahawks face the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, with kickoff set for 6:30 p.m. ET. Given Shaheed’s speed and recent performance, many are examining the odds of a kickoff return touchdown as part of broader Super Bowl predictions.
History of Kickoff Returns in Super Bowl Openings
In the history of the Super Bowl, the opening kickoff has been returned for a touchdown only once. That rare feat was accomplished by Devin Hester of the Chicago Bears in 2006, who took back Adam Vinatieri’s kickoff 92 yards during Super Bowl XLI. Despite Hester’s return, the Bears lost that game to Peyton Manning’s Indianapolis Colts. Overall, ten different players have scored kickoff return touchdowns in Super Bowl history, with the last occurring in 2014, when Percy Harvin helped the Seahawks defeat the Denver Broncos.
Notably, Super Bowl XXXV in 2001 featured two kickoff return touchdowns, one by the Baltimore Ravens and one by the New York Giants, a rare dual occurrence in the game’s history.
Assessing Rashid Shaheed’s Chances to Score on the Opening Kickoff
Recent rule changes surrounding the kickoff have decreased the number of touchbacks, increasing the likelihood that kick returns will occur, especially if the Seahawks receive the ball first. Rashid Shaheed, known for his explosive speed, will likely handle the return duties for Seattle and has already scored twice on kickoff returns during the current NFL season.
One of his notable performances includes returning the opening kickoff for a touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers in the Divisional Round. While the rarity of an opening kickoff touchdown in the Super Bowl makes this a long shot, Shaheed’s skill makes him a strong candidate to attempt it.
Considering these factors, placing a modest wager on Shaheed returning the opening kickoff for a touchdown could be tempting. With betting odds set at +4000 by bet365, a $10 bet could yield a $400 profit, reflecting the 2.44 percent implied probability of this event occurring.
How and Where to Watch the Seahawks vs. Patriots Super Bowl 2026
- Date: Sunday, February 8
- Kickoff: 6:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California
- Broadcast: NBC and Peacock
