The NFL's revamped kickoff rule is set to make its debut during the preseason kickoff game between the Chicago Bears and the Houston Texans. Despite the likelihood of both teams resting their starters, all eyes will be on the field to witness the implementation of the new rule at the annual Hall of Fame game at Tom Benson Stadium.
The league's owners approved a significant change to kickoffs with the aim of revitalizing what was considered a 'dead play' due to a notable decrease in returns last season. Under the new rule, kickoffs will now see the ball being kicked from the 35-yard line, with the 10 kick coverage players positioned at the opposing 40-yard line, five on each side of the field.
The return team will have a minimum of nine blockers in the 'set up zone' between the 30- and 35-yard line, with at least seven players making contact with the 35-yard line. Additionally, up to two returners will be permitted inside the 20-yard line.
During the kickoff, only the kicker and the two returners are allowed to move until the ball either touches the ground or is handled by a returner inside the 20-yard line. If the kick reaches the end zone in the air, the receiving team can choose to return it or opt for a touchback, granting them possession at the 30-yard line.
Any kick that lands in the end zone in the air and goes out of bounds or beyond the end zone will result in a touchback at the 30-yard line. If the ball hits a returner or the ground before reaching the end zone and then goes into the end zone, a touchback will be awarded at the 20-yard line, or the ball can be returned.
In cases where the kick goes out of bounds before reaching the end zone, or if it touches the ground or is handled by the receiving team before reaching the landing zone, the return team will gain possession at the 40-yard line. The new kickoff system is being trialed for one year and was inspired by the kickoffs used in the XFL spring league.
With only 21.8% of kickoffs being returned last season, teams often chose to avoid the risk associated with potential returns. The NFL anticipates that over half of all kickoffs will be returned this season, aiming to increase return opportunities without compromising player safety.
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