Trump Criticizes 'Sissy' NFL Kickoff Rule Changes

The former president has repeatedly slammed the league's new kickoff rules, but data shows the changes have improved player safety and return rates.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Former President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized the NFL's recent changes to the kickoff rule, calling it 'sissy,' 'ridiculous looking,' and even linking it to Bill Belichick's exclusion from the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The NFL altered the kickoff in 2024 to increase safety, and the data shows it has led to more returns and fewer injuries. However, Trump and some fans still prefer the old kickoff format.

Why it matters

The NFL's kickoff rule change has become a political flashpoint, with Trump using it to attack the league. This highlights the ongoing debate around player safety, rule changes, and the role of political figures in professional sports.

The details

The NFL changed its kickoff rule in 2024, requiring the kicker and two returners to be the only players who can move until the ball hits the ground or is touched by a returner. This was intended to increase longer returns while improving player safety. The rule change led to a jump in kickoff return rates, from a record-low 21.8% in 2023 to 32.8% in 2024. Concussions dropped 43% on returns, and lower-body injuries also decreased. In 2025, the NFL further adjusted the rule, moving touchbacks from the 30-yard line to the 35. Despite the data showing improved safety and return rates, Trump has repeatedly criticized the changes, calling them 'sissy' and 'ridiculous looking.'

  • The NFL changed its kickoff rule in 2024.
  • In 2025, the NFL further adjusted the kickoff rule, moving touchbacks from the 30-yard line to the 35.
  • Trump has criticized the kickoff rule changes at various times during the 2024 and 2025 NFL seasons.

The players

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States who has repeatedly criticized the NFL's kickoff rule changes.

Bill Belichick

The longtime head coach of the New England Patriots who Trump suggested was not elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame due to the same 'mindset' that led to the kickoff rule changes.

NFL

The professional American football league that implemented the kickoff rule changes in 2024 and 2025 to increase safety and return rates.

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What they’re saying

“I hated seeing what the NFL did with the kickoff return. Saw it tonight at the Steelers/Jets game. When you have something that works, don't 'tinker' with it, you may end up with nothing!”

— Donald Trump (Facebook)

“The NFL has to get rid of that ridiculous looking new Kickoff Rule. It's at least as dangerous as the 'normal' kickoff, and looks like hell. The ball is moving, and the players are not, the exact opposite of what football is all about. 'Sissy' football is bad for America, and bad for the NFL!”

— Donald Trump (Truth Social)

What’s next

The NFL is expected to continue evaluating the kickoff rule changes and make further adjustments if necessary based on data and player feedback.

The takeaway

The debate over the NFL's kickoff rule changes highlights the ongoing tension between player safety, fan preferences, and political influence in professional sports. While the data shows the rule changes have improved safety and return rates, some fans and political figures like Trump continue to push back against the changes.