Seems like this was overshadowed by the OT rules and the tush push but this might have a bigger impact than any other rule change. Clearly trying hard to create more kickoff returns.
Quote:
NFL ownership voted on Tuesday at the Annual League Meeting to continue to utilize the dynamic kickoff, while moving the ball spot on touchbacks from the 30-yard line to the 35-yard line for kicks sent into the end zone, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported.
The league debuted the dynamic kickoff on a one-year trial for the 2024 season with the goal of injecting life into what had essentially become a ceremonial play while also preserving player health and safety. The results in 2024 were a success. The league saw 332 more kickoff returns, bumping the previous 21.8% return rate up to 32.8%. There were also 59 big-play returns (returns of 40 or more yards) last season, which was the highest figure since 2016.
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https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-owners-...o-35-yard-line