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Goodell Eyes Kickoff Rule Changes to Boost Safety

2/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced that the league may propose changes to the kickoff rule and special teams plays.
He stated that recent modifications have reduced injury rates and increased kickoff returns.
The competition committee will review injury data to identify possible adjustments.
Goodell noted that more kickoff returns correlate with fewer punts, indicating safety improvements may be needed for punt plays.
Changes are expected to be proposed this spring.

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Story summary

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced that the league may propose changes to the kickoff rule and special teams plays.
He stated that recent modifications have reduced injury rates and increased kickoff returns.
The competition committee will review injury data to identify possible adjustments.
Goodell noted that more kickoff returns correlate with fewer punts, indicating safety improvements may be needed for punt plays.
Changes are expected to be proposed this spring.