"NFL Owners Approve Hybrid Kickoff Rule at Annual League Meeting"
NFL owners have approved a new hybrid kickoff rule at the Annual League Meeting, with a 29-3 vote, aiming to revitalize the kickoff play while prioritizing player safety. The rule features new alignments for both kicking and receiving units, with a "landing zone" triggering action off the kickoff. Kickoffs will remain at the 35-yard line, but the remaining 10 players on the kicking unit will line up at the opposing team's 40-yard line. The rule also includes changes to penalties on scoring plays and kickoff scenarios, and will lead to a tweak in onside kicks. The new rule is in place for the 2024 season and is subject to renewal in 2025, with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasizing the potential for future adjustments based on evaluation during the season.