Why are the NFL changing the kick-off?

The National Football League (NFL) has introduced new kickoff rules to reduce the risk of concussions and increase return rates. The new rules will be in effect for one year, with possible future adjustments.

Starting in 2024, kickers will kick from the 35-yard line, and 10 players from the kickoff team will be positioned at the receiving team’s 40-yard line. The return team will have nine players positioned between the 35 and 30-yard lines. The landing zone between the goal line and the 20-yard line can have up to two returners.

Only the kicker and returners can move until the ball hits the ground or a player. Touchbacks will be marked at the 30-yard line, and no fair catches will be allowed. Teams must inform officials before attempting an onside kick and use the traditional formation. Surprise onside kicks are not allowed. The new NFL kickoff format is similar to the XFL’s version, with a slight difference in player alignment. The XFL had a 90% return rate during its two seasons, while NFL coaches aim to achieve an 80% return rate in 2024.

To reduce concussions during kickoffs, the NFL has made several rule changes over the past 15 seasons. These changes include moving the kickoff point from the 30-yard line to the 35-yard line, prohibiting wedge and double-team blocks, and introducing a fair catch rule in 2023 that allows the ball to be spotted at the 25-yard line. The changes led to a significant increase in touchback rates, resulting in a record-low return rate of 21.7% in 2023. Although the number of concussions decreased, it only happened in proportion to the decrease in returns. The league officials have said that the concussion rate per kickoff remained relatively constant.