New proposal for kickoffs in the NFL

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As @TomPelissero said, the NFL is working on a proposal that INCLUDES teams having to declare onside kicks. But it's part of a much larger concept that'll have teams kicking off from the opponent's 40-yard line, with an aim on increasing returns, taking space/speed out.

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The proposal ...

• Kickoff team lines up on the plus-40. Same alignment rules. Everyone but kicker has foot on the 40.

• Return team lines up 9-10 players in setup zone b/w the 35 and 30. Six must have their foot on the 35.

• 1-2 returners b/w the 20 and goal line.

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No one but the kicker and return men can move until the ball is touched by the returner.

• If the ball doesn't cross the 20 in the air, it's treated as out of bounds, goes to the 40.

• If kicker kicks it into the end zone on the fly, touchback comes out to the 35.

(cont.)

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If return team lets it roll into the end zone, the touchback goes to the 20.

Idea was developed by Saints STC Darren Rizzi and Cowboys STC John Fassel. Those two and Bears STC Richard Hightower presented it to Roger Goodell and the competition committee last week.

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So this is why, again, as Tom said, the onside kick rules needed to be adjusted. The hope is it'll eliminate the 25-yard headstart to collision that the current space and speed create, and flip the number of touchbacks-to-returns, which is 80/20 now.

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No surprises: The new kickoff rule crafted by NFL special teams coordinators would allow teams to attempt an onside kick only when trailing in the fourth quarter — and require them to declare it in advance, per sources.

Language still being finalized and owners must approve.

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