NFL kickoffs may undergo further adjustments this offseason, with onside kicks also coming under scrutiny.
According to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero, special teams coordinators have proposed a new onside kick rule that would restrict attempts to the fourth quarter when a team is trailing. Teams would need to declare their intent beforehand and could employ an unbalanced formation to enhance recovery chances.
With only a 5.2% recovery rate in 2023 and limited surprise onside kicks due to banned run-ups, the proposed rules aim to increase both the frequency and success of onside kicks. However, the element of surprise diminishes as teams must adhere to a specified setup zone, affecting strategic formations.
Final language approval and owner voting are pending, slated for the Annual League Meeting from March 24-27.
Pelissero outlined additional proposed kickoff rule changes discussed at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, including:
- Setup Zone: Kickoff and return teams align on the receiving team’s 40- and 35-yard lines, respectively, until the ball is touched or reaches the “target zone” (20-yard line to goal line).
- Touchbacks: A ball kicked into the end zone allows the receiving team to start at the 35-yard line, while a kick into the target zone rolling into the end zone starts possession at the 20-yard line.
The NFL aims to revitalize the kickoff game, balancing return rates with player safety. Previous rule changes in 2023, allowing fair catches behind the 25-yard line, led to a decline in returns. The proposed adjustments seek to reinvigorate kickoffs, enhancing excitement while mitigating injury risks.
