In an effort to reduce injuries and increase kickoff returns, the National Football League (NFL) has approved new rules for the 2024 season. NFL referee John Hussey met with reporters after a Kansas City Chiefs practice to discuss the changes, with a particular focus on the revamped kickoff rule.

One significant change is the allowance of a 12th player as a holder during windy weather games where teams use kicking sticks to steady the ball. This player, however, will have to vacate the field immediately after holding the kick and will not be able to participate in any other aspects of the play.

The new kickoff rule aims to eliminate the running start that often leads to injuries by placing the kicking team and the kick return team five yards apart. Additionally, a landing zone from the 20-yard line to the goal-line has been introduced, where kicks must be returned. Failure to reach the landing zone will result in the receiving team starting at their own 40-yard line.

All officials, coaches, and players involved are still experimenting with the new kickoff rule, making it challenging to predict its outcome. The first trial of the redesigned kickoff is scheduled to take place at the Hall of Fame game on Thursday, with Hussey and his crew officiating the gameplay.

Hussey referred to the new kickoff rule as a "work in progress." He had detailed conversations with Chiefs special teams coordinator Dave Toub, who was part of the league's committee that designed the revamped kickoff. They particularly discussed how the rules surrounding the sideline would apply to the landing zone as well.

Further specifications were given regarding players catching the ball. If a player catches the ball with one foot in bounds and one foot out of bounds, the ball will be ruled out of bounds, and the receiving team will start at their own 40-yard line. Similarly, if a player catches the ball with one foot inside the 20-yard line and one foot outside, the ball will be deemed outside the landing zone, resulting in the same outcome.

Hussey emphasized that everyone involved is still learning, unsure about the strategies teams will employ. Questions remain about line drives, pooched balls, positioning of receivers, and potential changes in formations. These uncertainties will be observed during practice sessions and refined accordingly.

Officials must adapt to their new roles on the field as well. Previously, Hussey would stand under the uprights during kickoffs, but with the revamped rule, he and the umpire will now stand on the hash marks in the end zone, resembling a regular scrimmage play. This adjustment allows officials to closely monitor player movements and ensure they do not leave the ground early. Any premature movements will result in a five-yard penalty for illegal formation.

While there are potential challenges and adjustments to be made, Hussey has assured teams that the officiating crew will strike a balance between ensuring player safety and not over-officiating the game. The objective is to preserve and protect the kickoff while allowing it to naturally unfold.

The new kickoff rules are set to bring significant changes to the game and have garnered interest and relief from special teams coordinators. However, with the potential for false starts due to the prohibition of player movement until the ball is caught or touches the ground, both players and officials will need to adapt to the new playing style.

Sunday's Chiefs practice will provide Hussey and his crew an opportunity to witness the redesigned kickoff in action, gaining invaluable experience as they work towards refining and perfecting the new rule for the 2024 NFL season.