The NFL’s newly-approved — but much criticized — fair-catch rules on kickoffs, explained

Explaining why this rule is changing and the controversy surrounding it.

Welcome to FTW Explains, a guide to catching up on and better understanding stuff going on in the world. Have you read about the NFL approving a rule when it comes to kickoff returns and fair catches? We’re here to help.

Among the new NFL rules approved for the 2023 season is a simple one with far-reaching implications: If you fair catch a ball inside the 25-yard line — anywhere inside there — it’ll be placed at the 25 as if it was a touchback.

Now: Why would that be much criticized? Why is this happening in the first place? Fear not, we have answers.

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