As is the case every year, the NFL is adopting several new rules that will take effect this coming season. For one thing, they have outlawed the “hip-drop” type of tackle that injured Geno Smith during the Seahawks’ Monday night game against the Giants and put Ravens tight end Mark Andrews out for the season, as well – notably over the objections of the NFLPA.
The league is also changing the kickoff rules, taking a page out of the playbook of the spring leagues. Here’s a clip of what the new kickoffs will look like in 2024 – on a trial basis.
Here’s what the new NFL kickoff will look like this season: pic.twitter.com/vtR5bqGZLK
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 26, 2024
Here’s how teams will line up on the field for these kickoffs:
Kicking off a new era: Owners just approved the NFL Hybrid Kickoff rule, per source.
After years of tweaks turned one of the game’s most exciting moments into a “dead, ceremonial play”, the league hopes this overhaul will yield what it wants: fewer injuries and more returns. pic.twitter.com/jHLAjZJm0z
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 26, 2024
And here’s a more detailed explanation of the rules.
Here’s the final summary on the NFL Hybrid Kickoff that owners approved today on a one-year trial basis. pic.twitter.com/FYKaytdwka
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 26, 2024
The Seahawks were apparently one of 29 teams that voted in favor of the new kickoff rules. The 49ers, Packers and the Raiders voted against it.
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