The NFL’s new kickoff rule will be making its debut in the upcoming preseason game between the Chicago Bears and the Houston Texans. Both teams are expected to rest their starters, but all eyes will be on the revamped kickoffs during the annual Hall of Fame game at Tom Benson Stadium.
The NFL owners approved a significant change to kickoffs in an effort to liven up a play that had seen a record-low number of returns in the previous season. Under the new rule, the ball will be kicked from the 35-yard line, with the 10 kick coverage players lined up at the opposing 40, five on each side of the field.
The return team will have at least nine blockers in the “set-up zone” between the 30- and 35-yard line, with at least seven players touching the 35-yard line. There can be up to two returners inside the 20-yard line. Only the kicker and the returners are allowed to move until the ball hits the ground or is touched by a returner inside the 20.
If a kick reaches the end zone in the air, the receiving team can choose to return it or take a touchback and start possession at the 30-yard line. A kick that goes out of bounds or out of the end zone will also result in a touchback at the 30-yard line.
If a kick hits a returner or the ground before reaching the end zone and then goes into the end zone, the return team can take a touchback at the 20 or choose to return the ball. If a kick goes out of bounds before reaching the end zone or is touched by the receiving team before the landing zone, the return team will get the ball at the 40-yard line.
The new kickoff system is being implemented on a one-year trial basis and was inspired by the kickoffs used in the XFL spring league. Last season, only 21.8% of all kickoffs were returned, as teams often chose to play it safe and avoid potential returns.
The NFL is hoping that the new rules will lead to an increase in the number of returns this season while also maintaining player safety. The goal is to make kickoffs more exciting without compromising on the well-being of the players.
It will be interesting to see how the new kickoff rules impact the game and if they succeed in achieving the league’s objectives. Fans can expect a different dynamic on kickoffs this season as teams adjust to the changes.