Overview

• The NFL Competition Committee is evaluating two potential kickoff rule changes: moving the touchback spot to the 35-yard line or moving the kickoff spot back to the 30-yard line.
• The dynamic kickoff rule, introduced in 2024, increased kickoff return rates to 32.8%, up from 21.8% in 2023, while also reducing injuries.
• Alternative options for onside kicks, such as a fourth-and-15 or fourth-and-20 play, are under discussion to improve success rates, which have remained below 10%.
• Replay assist may be expanded to review objective aspects of penalties, though subjective calls and retroactive penalties are not being considered.
• Any proposed rule changes will require approval from 24 of the 32 NFL teams during the annual league meeting in late March.