New NFL kickoff rules: Have they increased return rates and player safety so far?

The NFL 's new kickoff rules have spurred creative approaches from some coaches but caution from most.

Through four weeks of the season , the leaguewide rate of returning a kickoff is 29% , up notably from 17% during the same timeframe in 2023 but still the third -lowest return rate since 2000 .

The XFL placed touchbacks at the 35 -yard line, a big reason why it achieved a 92% return rate.

There have been 43 flags so far on kickoffs, the highest number through four weeks since 2008 .

The Vikings have 20 touchbacks on 23 kickoffs; one of the three returns came after a ball was mishit by rookie place -kicker Will Reichard .

The Saints have been particularly aggressive in attempting to pin opponents inside the 20 .

Arizona Cardinals have posted a better average drive start after a return.

Owners approved the rule for one year only, intentionally forcing a 2025 trigger to reevaluate and enhance the rule.

There is a widespread belief among teams that a rule tweak -- most likely an offseason change -- will be necessary.

Goodell referenced that possibility during his NFL Network appearance Tuesday , noting it "would be a game-changer".