NFL proposes rule change to double kickoff returns in 2025

United States – The NFL is proposing a rule change that could dramatically increase the percentage of kickoffs returned in 2025. If passed, the new rule would move touchbacks to the 35-yard line, potentially doubling the rate of kickoffs returned compared to 2024.

In 2024, 33% of kickoffs were returned under the NFL’s “dynamic” kickoff rule, an increase from the 22% return rate seen in 2023. However, that return percentage was still the second-lowest in league history. In 2022, 38% of kickoffs were returned, a sharp contrast to the period before 2013 when most kickoffs were returned.

The “dynamic” rule, implemented in 2024, moved touchbacks to the 30-yard line. This change led many teams to prefer kicking the ball into the end zone, as it was deemed safer than allowing a potentially dangerous long return. As a result, 64% of kickoffs resulted in touchbacks.

Under the proposed rule change, moving touchbacks to the 35-yard line would encourage teams to return the ball more often, with the NFL estimating that 60% to 70% of kickoffs would be returned. The NFL Competition Committee has concluded that the extra five yards on touchbacks will prompt most kicking teams to keep the ball in play, which aligns with the league’s goal of making kickoffs more action-packed.

The NFL introduced the “dynamic” kickoff rule to reduce injuries, which had spiked in previous seasons. Data from 2024 suggests the rule has been successful in lowering injuries to a level similar to other plays on the field. Now, the league is focused on increasing the excitement and competitiveness of kickoffs, aiming to bring more action back to a part of the game that had become mostly routine.

If the proposal passes, fans could see a noticeable increase in kickoffs returned during the 2025 season, adding more dynamic plays to NFL games.