Giants rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart reveals what NFL rule he thinks needs to be changed

Although the New York Giants look to be planning on starting Russell Wilson at quarterback when the 2025 season begins, rookie Jaxson Dart may start gaining on him pretty quickly.

The Giants’ first selection in this year’s draft is already preparing to be the starter, even if he isn’t - just in case. Dart started out at USC, but transferred to Ole Miss, where he finished his last season with 4,279 passing yards and 29 touchdowns, adding 495 yards and three scores on the ground.

Dart preparing for NFL debut

As he gets ready to enter the big leagues, Dart was asked by Formula One presenter Lissie Mackintosh how it feels to be a part of the Giants team. He said it’s exactly where he wants to be and is excited to get things going.

After some F1 banter, Mackintosh also asked Dart if there was any rule he would change in the NFL. After some considerable thought, Dart settled on the kickoff rule, saying it should go “back to what it was”.

What is the NFL’s new kickoff rule?

In 2024, the NFL adopted the “Dynamic Kickoff” format as a trial, and they’ve now made it permanent in 2025. The goal was to increase returns and reduce high-speed collisions by aligning players closer together and restricting movement until the ball is touched.

Key changes for 2025 include modified alignment rules for the receiving team’s setup zone, moving touchbacks to the 35-yard line when kicks land in or exit the end zone, and allowing onside kicks at any time for trailing teams - not just in the fourth quarter.

Under this format, kicks must land in a designated landing zone (goal line to 20-yard line) or the play is blown dead and penalized. Strict rules govern player alignment, movement timing, and touchback outcomes, while penalties generally affect only the kickoff spot, not zone placement.

Like Dart, other players have raised concerns about the Dynamic Kickoff due to its complexity, increased pressure on returners, and limited flexibility. The unfamiliar setup and strict movement rules have led to confusion and a higher risk of penalties. Returners are forced to field more kicks, increasing their injury risk and reducing touchback options.

The rule also diminishes roles for special teams players and restricts coaching strategies. Overall, while intended to improve safety and excitement, many players feel the format creates more uncertainty and potential for mistakes.

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