With every NFL off-season comes proposed rule changes, most of which do not get passed by the league. However, on May 23rd 2023, the NFL passed a new rule that could impact how teams construct their roster for the upcoming season.
That new rule is, on kick-offs, if a returner elects to fair catch the ball anywhere between the goal line and the 25-yard line, the team will start their possession on the 25. NFL insider Steve Wyche provided some details via his Twitter account:
The NFL just passed a rule (for one season) that if a fair catch is made on a kickoff anywhere between the 25-yard line and the goal line, the ensuing drive will start at the 25.