The NFL will look different this year with new rules for kickoffs. Owners approved changes to make kickoffs safer and more exciting. The changes will be tested in the first game of the season between Houston and Chicago.
The new kickoff rules are borrowed from the XFL spring league. The goal is to reduce dangerous collisions. Standard kicks will start from the 35-yard line. The coverage players will line up at the opposing 40-yard line. The return team will have blockers between the 30- and 35-yard line. Only the kicker and two returners can move until the ball is touched.
If a kick reaches the end zone, the receiving team can return it or take a touchback at the 30-yard line. If the ball goes out of bounds, the return team gets the ball at the 40-yard line. The changes aim to increase the number of returns while keeping players safe.
Last season, only 21.8% of kicks were returned. The NFL hopes that more than half of the kicks will be returned this season. Kickoffs were dangerous plays with high-speed collisions leading to concussions.
Special teams coaches are still figuring out the best strategy for the new kickoff rules. Hang time is no longer as important, and kicks that hit the ground in the end zone are ideal. Returners may need to act more like traditional running backs to find holes in the coverage.
The new rules also affect onside kicks. Trailing teams must declare their intention to attempt an onside kick in the fourth quarter. The surprise onside kick is rare in the NFL.
Another significant rule change is the ban on the “swivel hip drop” tackle. This tackle led to injuries and will now result in a 15-yard penalty. Defenders must avoid using this dangerous technique to avoid penalties and fines.
Other changes involve tweaks to the instant replay system. Teams now get a third challenge if one of their first two challenges is successful. Replay can now determine if a snap occurred before the game clock expired and advise officials on roughing the passer.
These rule changes aim to make the game safer and more exciting for players and fans. The NFL is constantly evolving to improve the game while prioritizing player safety.