The National Football League has come a long way over the past decade or so.
For better or worse, the game has changed, and while some people might not like the direction the league is heading, change is the only constant, and the game also has to evolve.
That happened again earlier in the offseason when the league agreed to test out a new kick-off rule for the upcoming season.
They took the idea from the XFL, and it’s meant to prevent injuries.
With that in mind, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell claimed that they announced it so early in the offseason so teams had a chance to prepare and adjust accordingly (via SiriusXM NFL Radio).
.@NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell talked to us about the kickoff rule change for the 2024 season and the future for the head of officiating position…
https://t.co/u2cRkateWV@SiriusXMSports | @JimMiller_NFL | @PatKirwan_NFL pic.twitter.com/EceRd6NE7e
— SiriusXM NFL Radio (@SiriusXMNFL) April 30, 2024
The Commissioner admitted that even though that was one of the most exciting plays of the game, it also had a higher injury rate than others, arguing that player safety should be first and foremost when it comes to planning.
He also stated that even though this rule change was approved on a one-year test basis, he wouldn’t be shocked if they made it a permanent change.
Former special teams players have complained about how this rule will lead to more scoring and give special teamers an unfair advantage to break some marks.
That’s true, but again, that’s the direction the game is moving to.
At the end of the day, as fans, the best thing we can do is embrace change and continue to enjoy this beautiful game and everything that comes with it.
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