This came after owners shook up the rule book by voting to outlaw the controversial ‘hip-drop’ tackle the day prior.
Then in 2023, the NFL announced that the returning team would be able to signal for a fair catch to advance to the 25.
These alterations – combined with the significant injury risk that the kicking team posed by running at full speed towards the returning team – saw the incentive to return the ball dwindle.
Similarly, if the ball goes through and out of the end zone, it will be a touchback to the 30-yard line.
“I think it will be a big improvement,” NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said, according to the league.
Persons:
–, Scott Taetsch, it’s, Tyler Scott, You’ve, Punt, Roger Goodell, ” Goodell, ”, “, we’ll, Dameon Pierce, Richard Rodriguez, Dan Campbell
Organizations:
CNN, NFL, XFL, league’s, of Fame, Chicago Bears, Houston Texans, ESPN, Getty Images Detroit Lions