The NFL has been experimenting with its kickoff rules in recent years, trying to strike a balance between player safety and maintaining the excitement of returns.
After implementing a major overhaul in 2024, the league is already considering additional changes for the upcoming season to further decrease touchbacks and increase return opportunities.
More returns, fewer touchbacks
The 2024 rule changes moved the kickoff spot to the 35-yard line and introduced a designated “landing zone” that penalized kicks landing outside of it. Players were also restricted from moving until the ball was touched. These changes achieved their intended goals-kickoff returns increased, and injuries on returns decreased. However, the NFL isn’t satisfied just yet.
According to NFL Competition Committee chairman and Atlanta FalconsCEO Rich McKay, the league is now discussing further adjustments. One proposal involves moving the starting field position for touchbacks from the 30-yard line to the 35. Another potential change could push the kickoff spot back five yards, forcing more kicks to land in play rather than sailing through the end zone.
Will teams approve the change?
For any new rule to be implemented, it must receive approval from 24 of the league’s 32 teams. McKay mentioned that discussions will continue leading up to the league meetings in March, where an official vote could take place.
One of the biggest obstacles to increasing returns has been teams strategically kicking deep to ensure a touchback. If touchbacks now result in possession at the 35-yard line instead of the 30, teams may be more inclined to attempt shorter, returnable kicks to avoid giving opponents great field position.
Whether the proposed changes will pass remains uncertain, but if approved, they could significantly alter special teams strategy and bring more action back to kickoffs.
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