The NFL changed the kickoff rule to limit further returns

Get ready for more touches!

• by
  
  Kyle Yost
  

• on May 25, 2023 6:30 AM

Although it seemed that the proposal had a lot of opponents – incl all Special teams coach NFL owners passed a controversial new rule this week that will have a huge impact on the game. Starting this season, any fair catch on a kickoff inside the 25-yard line will be moved to the 25, regardless of whether or not it was caught in the end zone.

The ostensible logic behind this decision is player safety. Having special teams players running full speed along the court with each other is definitely more dangerous than the usual game. But change comes at a cost, and this reduction in strategic advantage is the biggest source of disruption.

Today’s question is:

Do you agree with the new NFL starting rule?

my answerThere is no denying that this change will be felt from the beginning of its implementation. Teams have been very deliberate about trying to pin returners away from the end zone, but suddenly that tactic has no advantage. Many fear (rightly) that this may be the beginning of the end for going off completely.

However – I feel like there is a bit of an overreaction here. College football fans are no strangers to this rule, and honestly it hasn’t really changed my viewing experience. Teams with good returns are still trying to advance the ball, and while there will be fewer returns per game, I doubt the average starting field position will be materially affected. Maybe I’m wrong, but I’m going to need to actually see this happen before I get upset.

Your turn.

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