The NFL has moved touchbacks to the 25-yard line and passed a new ejections rule – despite objections from coaches.
NFL owners voted to move the ball spot on touchbacks after kickoffs to the 25-yard line, to try to limit the number of returns after injuries on the play rose in 2015. They also ruled that players will be subject to automatic ejection if they commit two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties in the same game. Specifically, a “player penalized twice in one game for certain types of unsportsmanlike conduct fouls” will be “disqualified”.
The automatic ejection proposal was suggested by NFL commissioner Roger Goodell just before the Super Bowl.
Both rule changes will be reviewed after the 2016 season before the NFL decides whether to make them permanent.
The owners were concerned about player safety on kickoffs – but the decision to move the touchback up five yards could have the opposite effect.
Some coaches suggested that the number of kickoff returns could actually increase, with kickers using “mortar kicks” that drop close to the goal line and require a return.
According to Deadspin, two veteran special teams coordinators told the Chicago Tribune the new rule will lead more teams telling the kickers to get as much hang time as possible while landing the ball near the goal line in an effort to cover a kick and pin the offense inside the 25 or even inside the 20.
Coaches also claimed that opponents will bait players into committing penalties that qualify for the ejection rule, but owners say that won’t happen. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said: “I think it points to our emphasis on good sportsmanship.”
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