The NFL owners have voted to approve a new kickoff rule. The format originated in the XFL.
According to ESPN, in the 2024 season, kickers will maintain their position at the 35-yard line for kickoffs. However, the remaining ten players on the kickoff team will line up at the receiving team’s 40-yard line. On the return team, at least nine players will position themselves within a designated “setup zone” spanning from the 35- to the 30-yard lines. Up to two returners may also stand within a “landing zone” between the goal line and the 20-yard line.
An example of the kickoff is below.
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Here’s what the new NFL kickoff will look like this season: pic.twitter.com/vtR5bqGZLK
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 26, 2024