NFL Overhauls Kickoff Rules for 2026 Season

League introduces changes to onside kick, touchback, and more in bid to improve player safety

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:52pm

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The NFL has announced a series of significant rule changes for the 2026 season, with a focus on improving player safety during kickoffs. The new rules include modifications to the onside kick, touchback procedures, and other kickoff-related plays.

Why it matters

Kickoffs have long been one of the most dangerous plays in football, with a high risk of serious injuries. The league has been under pressure from players, coaches, and safety advocates to make the game safer, leading to these latest rule changes aimed at reducing the number of high-speed collisions on kickoffs.

The details

The key changes include: 1) Onside kicks will now require the kicking team to recover the ball at least 20 yards downfield, up from the previous 10-yard requirement. 2) Touchbacks will now result in the receiving team starting at the 25-yard line, rather than the 20. 3) Coverage teams will be limited to a 5-yard running start before the kick, down from the previous 10 yards.

  • The new kickoff rules will take effect at the start of the 2026 NFL season.

The players

Trent McDuffie

A cornerback who was recently traded from the Kansas City Chiefs to the Los Angeles Rams.

David Montgomery

A running back who was traded from the Detroit Lions to the Houston Texans.

DJ Moore

A wide receiver who was traded from the Chicago Bears to the Buffalo Bills.

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What they’re saying

“Player safety has to be the top priority, and these new kickoff rules are an important step in the right direction.”

— Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner

“The onside kick change is going to make it much harder for us to try and mount a comeback late in games. But I understand the league's focus on safety.”

— Tom Brady

What’s next

The NFL Competition Committee will continue to monitor the impact of the new kickoff rules throughout the 2026 season and may consider further adjustments in the future.

The takeaway

The NFL's latest round of kickoff rule changes demonstrates the league's ongoing commitment to player safety, even if it means making the game more challenging for teams trying to mount late-game comebacks. These modifications aim to reduce the number of high-speed collisions on kickoffs, which have long been one of the most dangerous plays in football.