Total Pro Sports
The NFL is once again looking at potential changes to its kickoff rules for the 2025 season. After modifying the kickoff format in 2024, which led to a 57% return increase and a lower injury rate, the league’s competition committee is now considering further adjustments. Led by Chairman Rich McKay, the committee aims to make kickoffs more exciting while keeping player safety a priority.
One of the most significant proposed changes is shifting the touchback spot from the 30-yard line to the 35-yard line. This would give receiving teams a better starting position and discourage kickers from booting the ball out of the end zone. The league initially included a touchback at the 35-yard line in the 2024 rule change but adjusted it to the 30-yard line just days before the final vote. Now, the NFL is reconsidering this idea.
Another change under discussion is moving the kickoff spot five yards back, placing the ball at the kicking team’s 30-yard line instead of the current 35-yard line. This adjustment would make it harder for kickers to reach the end zone, increasing the likelihood of returns. McKay noted that while some owners may support changing the touchback rule, others might prefer adjusting the kickoff spot. Some are even open to implementing both changes simultaneously.
Just In: The NFL will consider changes to the kickoff rule, including touchbacks moving to the 35-yard-line, via Rich McKay. pic.twitter.com/7AgN7ZMEfu
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 24, 2025
The NFL is also exploring ways to make onside kicks more competitive. In 2024, teams attempted 42 onside kicks, but only three were recovered. To improve the success rate, the league is revisiting the idea of allowing teams to attempt a fourth-and-15 or fourth-and-20 play instead of kicking. If the offense converts the play, they would retain possession. This idea has been debated in previous years but never gained enough support. However, McKay expects discussions to resume this offseason.
Also Read: What Is The New Dynamic Kickoff Rule In The NFL? Everything You Need To Know
For any rule change to take effect, at least 24 of the league’s 32 owners must vote in favor. These discussions will occur during the annual league meetings, scheduled for March 30 to April 2 in Palm Beach, Florida. The league approved the 2024 kickoff rule on a one-year trial basis, meaning officials will review it again before the 2025 season.
While the 2024 rule changes increased kickoff returns, the NFL still recorded its second-lowest return rate since 2000. The league wants to maintain safety improvements while encouraging even more returns. Adjusting the touchback spot and kickoff placement could help achieve this balance. Additionally, refining the onside kick rules could make late-game comebacks more exciting.
The NFL competition committee met today and unanimously...
