The NFL could be in for a season with significantly fewer kickoff returns. The league and team owners approved a proposal for a new fair-catch rule that will take effect for the first time in 2023.

Kickoff returns in the NFL could become a rarity in 2023.

The league and team owners voted to draft a new fair-catch rule that makes it more lucrative for the returner not to run the ball back. NFL rules watchdog Rich McKay confirmed this.

NFL suspends new rule for now

With the new rule, a fair catch inside one’s own 25-yard line will be considered a touchback and the receiving team will then receive the ball at its own 25. However, this only applies to kickoffs, not punts. The NFL is thus adapting the rule from college football, which has been playing with this rule since 2018.

However, the NFL is suspending the rule for the time being for testing. In the final version, which was voted on by the owners, it was stated that the rule only applies for one season. Should the effect of the rule fail to take hold or be liked, the NFL would automatically be rid of it in 2024.

NFL owners approved the resolution putting the ball on the 25-yard line following a fair catch on a kickoff, I’m told.

Special teams coordinators unanimously opposed the change, but it’s happening.

– Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 23, 2023

NFL specialists even have safety concerns

The NFL keeps the safety aspect in the rule document as the official reason for the new rule. The league hopes fewer returns will result in fewer hard hits