2025 Rule Proposal: How Kickoffs Will Change in the NFL

The NFL is seeking to solve two problems:

1. Lack of excitement on kickoffs: In 2023, only 21% of kickoffs were returned, reducing the play to a mere formality.
2. Player safety: High-speed collisions on returns result in more injuries than other plays.

With this new format, the league aims to encourage returns, but in a safer way.

This rule will be implemented experimentally in the 2025 season and completely changes the kickoff mechanics. Here are the key points:

• The ball will be placed on the kicking team’s 35-yard line, as usual.
• The kicker will be alone on that line.
• The other 10 players on the kicking team will line up at the opponent’s 40-yard line, five on each side of the field.

• The receiving team will place 9 players between its 30 and 35 yard line, unable to move before the return.
• A returner will be between his end zone and the 20-yard line to catch the ball.
• Only one or two players will be allowed outside of that waiting area.

• The 20 opposing players (10 per team) may not move until the ball touches the ground or the returner.
• No feints or pre-snap movements are allowed.

• If the ball enters the end zone and is returned, the ball starts where the return ends.
• If the ball enters the end zone and is kneeled or taken out, the offense starts at the 30-yard line.
• If the ball bounces inbounds and enters the end zone, and there is no return, it also starts at the 30-yard line.
• If the ball does not reach the 20-yard line without contact with the receiver, it will be a penalty.

• If the kicker kicks short (for example, to prevent a return) and the ball does not go beyond the 20-yard line, the opposing team starts at the 40-yard line .
• If the ball goes directly out of bounds or the back, it is a foul and it also starts from the 40-yard line.
• Onside kicks are not allowed from this formation, but are still permitted under traditional conditions (with prior notice to the referee).

The NFL is presenting this as a temporary measure, valid only for 2025. But if it works (more excitement and fewer injuries), it could become a permanent rule. It will be interesting to see how teams like the Buccaneers adapt their strategies and rosters to this change. We’ll see if the kickoff changes continue in 2026.

For a team like the Bucs, which has had explosive returners like Deven Thompkins and is looking to improve on  special teams, this rule could be an opportunity. It also opens up room for specific types of players: strong blockers, returners with vision and explosiveness, and accurate kickers.

Additionally, roster decisions will be affected: the value of specialists may increase, and coaches will need to redesign the special teams playbook.

The rule will be evaluated after the season. If the impact is not as expected—on the show or safety—it will be eliminated in 2026.