NFL owners approve radical overhaul to kickoff rules, adopting setup used in XFL
Kickoff returns are returning to the NFL after team owners passed a new rule by a 29-3 to vote. The rule will be in play for one season on a trial basis and then subject to renewal in 2025.
![NFL owners approve radical overhaul to kickoff rules, adopting setup used in XFL](https://i.cbc.ca/1.7155944.1711473663!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/nfl-kickoff-rule-change-240107-1180.jpg)
![There were 92 fair catches last season that are no longer allowed in the NFL. Any ball caught in the field of play next season must be returned under a new rule passed Thursday by a 29-3 vote from team owners. A Miami Dolphins wide receiver catches a kick after having signalled for a fair catch as a Buffalo Bills opponent looks on during a Jan. 7, 2024 NFL game in Miami Gardens, Fla.](https://i.cbc.ca/1.7155944.1711473663!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/nfl-kickoff-rule-change-240107-1180.jpg)
Kickoff returns are returning to the NFL after team owners passed a new rule by a 29-3 to vote. The rule will be in play for one season on a trial basis and then subject to renewal in 2025.