NFL owners have approved of five new rules changes ahead of the 2026 season, according to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer—with three of them relating to the kickoff.
The league introduced a new kickoff rule in 2024, designed to make the play safer while also keeping it an exciting part of the game. Saddled with a “landing zone” and kick and return teams that can’t move until the ball is fielded, the Dynamic Kickoff has ultimately proven successful, as returns have steadily increased since it was put in place. Last offseason, the NFL adjusted the touchback from the 20-yard line to the 35-yard line and the rules surrounding onside kicks. Now, three more tweaks are being added to the mix.
