Referee Brad-Allen/photo courtesy of Getty Images
With all the hype that happened a few months ago with the “tush push” controversy, it was hard to determine if we were ever going to see that excellent play again for the 2025 season.
Now that the Associated Press (AP) has come out with their understanding of the new rule modifications for the 2025 season, let’s take a look at some of them and their updates.
1. First Down Measurements
Starting in the 2025 season, the NFL will utilize a virtual measuring system for first downs. The new virtual system, when introduced, may still require the chain gang on the sidelines in case the measuring system breaks down.
The first down technology lets the officiating team know right away if the 1st down was obtained or not.
Pro football has seen a similar type of system for the past two seasons in the UFL, and it has worked smoothly.
This is another smart rule the NFL took from the UFL, as the two leagues are working together to make pro football a more transparent game and create consistent calls.
2. Overtime Changes
Overtime, in the history of the NFL has evolved so much since its initial inception. In 1974, they added a 15-minute sudden-death quarter that would end on any score, field goal, or touchdown.
In 2010, the rule was adjusted to an altered sudden death, which states that teams must score a touchdown on their first possession to win the game, instead of just a field goal.
Seven years later, in 2017, overtime was cut down to 10 minutes from 15 minutes. In 2022, the league changed the rule again. Now in the postseason, both teams have a chance to score even if the team scores an opening touchdown.
This rule now applies in the regular season. Based on Sportradar, last year, six of the 16 overtime games played concluded on an opening-drive TD, the most overtime games ending on the first drive, considering the procedure change went into execution in 2010.
In the end, for the 2025 season, to coincide with the postseason, the NFL decided that both teams will get possession of the ball, even if the squad that handles the ball first obtains a touchdown.
3. What’s New With the Dynamic Kickoff
As expected, the league was very happy with the dynamic kickoff put in place last season. The league saw an increase in return rates from a record-worst 21.8% in 2023 to 32.8% last year. Plus, it cut down on the injuries previously deemed the game’s most hazardous play.
The rule adjustment made kickoffs more like traditional scrimmage plays. As a result, concussion rates fell 43% on returns with a notable cut on lower-body injuries.
Last year, many teams still chose to boot the ball into the end zone. The mean starting field position on a touchback was just 2.4 yards further than the average starting position.
The league surmises that the return rate will ascend again between 60 and 70%. This may lead to more returns and create more action-packed plays.
Another great rule the NFL took from the UFL to continue to enhance a better game on the field.
4. What About Onside Kicks?
Due to the unique line-up, teams will still have to announce their purpose when attempting an onside kick.
However, the league will revert to the previous rule of allowing teams to declare onside kicks before the fourth quarter, as the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl had to kick the ball deep while trailing by 28 points late in the third quarter.
The coverage players will be permitted to line up one extra yard closer to increase their recovery chances.
After this season, the NFL should adopt the 4th and long conversion play that has been so effective in the UFL.
