The NFL owners are currently holding their Spring League Meeting in Minneapolis, Minnesota, discussing a number of league matters, including some rule changes.
Owners approved a rule allowing teams to designate an emergency third quarterback from the 53-man roster that can be used if the first two quarterbacks are deemed unable to compete by the medical staff. This was originally a rule from 1991-2010, but after last year’s NFC Championship Game, which saw the San Francisco 49ers turn to running back Christian McCaffrey at quarterback, the league is bringing it back.
League owners also voted on a change that would allow returning players to field a kickoff as a fair catch and receive the ball at the receiving team’s 25-yard line. After originally not getting enough momentum to pass, commissioner Roger Goodell made a plea to the owners, and the rule was passed with a 26-5-1 vote. The only teams to vote against it, according to the MMQB’s Albert Breer, were the Baltimore Ravens, New England Patriots, Chicago Bears and Detroit Lions. Breer also noted that Las Vegas Raiders abstained from voting.
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross was one of the 26 who voted for the change. While the big push from Goodell was regarding player safety and preventing future litigation, Miami may also benefit on the field.
Last season, Raheem Mostert, the Dolphins’ lead kickoff returner, averaged 20.1 yards per return, which was the second-fewest of all returners with at least 20 returns on the year.
This change, had it come in 2022, could’ve given Miami better starting field position throughout the season, making it easier on the offense.
