1 year ago
NFL Introduces New Kickoff Rules for 2023 Season
NFL Revamps Kickoff Rules for 2023 Season
The NFL has introduced significant changes to kickoff rules for the 2023 season, aiming to increase returns and enhance player safety. The new 'dynamic kickoff' rule introduces a 'landing zone' and alters player positioning to reduce high-speed collisions.
- Kicks into the landing zone must be returned
- Kicking team players must wait until ball lands before moving
- Receiving team allowed maximum of two returners
- Onside kicks restricted to fourth quarter and must be declared
Preseason results show a significant increase in kickoff returns, with 70.5% of kickoffs returned compared to 54.8% last year. The changes aim to make kickoffs a more integral part of the game while prioritizing player safety.
The NFL has radically altered the kickoff rule for this season, which officially begins when the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Baltimore Ravens on Sept. 5.