“What happened to the game I love” – Social media goes BERSERK over reports of NFL considering bold changes to the kickoff rules to make it more exciting

Fans are not happy with the proposed rule changes in the kickoffs.

“What happened to the game I love” – Social media goes BERSERK over reports of NFL considering bold changes to the kickoff rules to make it more exciting

Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (Via Imago)

The NFL off-season is getting really interesting. While the teams are working overtime to prepare for the upcoming free agency and draft process, Commissioner Roger Goodell is working on the proposed rule changes. According to reports, the NFL is considering making changes to the kickoff rules to make it exciting and safe for the players.

According to the NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero, the league is looking to make drastic changes in the special teams’ plays. Firstly, a new rule reportedly crafted by the special teams coordinators could be a massive game changer when it comes to onside kicks.

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The new rule would allow teams to try an onside kick only if they are trailing in the fourth quarter of the game. Besides, the team would also have to declare their onside kick attempt in advance. This rule could take away the excitement of the surprise onside kick attempts.

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Furthermore, there could also be massive changes in kickoffs. The new rule would move back the kickoffs to the 35-40-yard line. If the ball doesn’t cross the 20-yard line during kickoffs, the kick would be considered out of bounds, and the opposing team will start their drive at their 40-yard line. Besides, a touchback during the kickoffs would result in the ball being placed at the 35-yard line instead of the 25-yard line.

The goal behind the rule changes is to increase kick-returning attempts, which will make the kickoffs more exciting. Furthermore, the league also seems to believe the rule changes will reduce speed and space in the play, addressing the major issue regarding injuries during kickoff returns.

Pelissero believes the proposed rule change would get approved during the Annual League Meeting, which is scheduled to take place from March 24-27 in Orlando, Florida.

Social media reacts to proposed rule changes in the NFL kickoffs

NFL fans on social media had some wild reactions to the proposed rule changes in the kickoffs, which addresses the major injury issue during kickreturns. Experts believe the rule change would easily get the vote required for the approval.

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NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell (Image via IMAGO)

Many bashed the league for tinkering with the rules and making it more confusing for the fans. Check out some of the reactions attached below.

Apart from this rule change, the league is also expected to address the demands to ban the ‘Tush Push’ play, mostly used by Jalen Hurts and the Philadelphia Eagles. However, the league is not expected to ban the play.

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