New Orleans – The NFL’s upcoming rule changes are raising eyebrows as the competition committee gears up for the 2025 season. Among the top recommendations is a push to make the new kickoff rule permanent, aiming to enhance excitement and safety in the game.
Since last season, the league has seen an increase in kickoff returns, with a notable rise in return rates from a low of 21.8% in 2023 to 32.8% last year. In hopes of generating even more returns, the committee suggests moving the touchback from the 30-yard line to 35 yards. This change is believed to encourage teams to kick shorter, potentially increasing the number of returns. NFL Competition Committee chairman Rich McKay expressed optimism, stating, “We think that’s a lot of motivation for people to kick the ball in play and get returns back in the game.”
During Super Bowl 59, the Eagles showcased their skills, particularly quarterback Jalen Hurts, who scored a touchdown by being pushed over the goal line by his teammates against the Chiefs. Fans were thrilled to witness such an intense match as it highlighted both teams’ strategies and the execution of plays under pressure.
In addition to the kickoff changes, the committee proposed allowing teams to announce their intention for an onside kick at any point in the game when they are behind, rather than just in the fourth quarter. This recommendation aims to make the game more dynamic and exciting for fans, although there is no interest in changing the onside kick rules drastically.
Concerns about player safety remain at the forefront, and last season’s stats support this, with a 43% drop in concussion rates from the previous three years. The NFL reported the fewest lower-extremity strains on kick return plays since 2018, emphasizing the success of the recent rules aimed at improving player welfare.
As for instant replay proposals, the committee suggests expanding its use to assist on-field officials in making objective calls, ranging from facemask penalties to roughing the kicker. However, they ruled out the idea of allowing replay to call penalties that were not flagged during the game.
With all these changes expected to be discussed at the league meetings in Palm Beach, Florida, the NFL keeps moving towards a more safe and exciting playing environment. Fans eagerly anticipate how these modifications will shape the upcoming season.
