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The NFL has released the modified kickoff proposal. The changes apply only to kicks that are launched in the end zone, that hit the goal post/uprights/crossbar, or that leave the end zone on the fly.
In those situations, the next series will begin at the receiving team’s 30, not the receiving team’s 35, as originally proposed.
For kicks that do not reach the landing zone, which begins at the receiving team’s 20, the ball will still go to the receiving team’s 40.
There was some confusion during Thursday’s NFL conference call on this point; A kickoff near the landing zone will result in the ball being placed 25 yards from the kick spot. For a normal kickoff from the kicking team’s 35, that means the receiving team’s 40. The new adjustment to the proposal does not change that.
An out-of-bounds kickoff will also start the drive 25 yards from the spot of the kick, or where the ball went out of bounds. (The receiving team has the option).
If a safety kick does not reach the landing zone, possession begins 30 yards from the place of the kick. Normally, it will be the midfield. A safety kick that goes out of bounds will also start the drive 30 yards from the place of the kick, or where the ball went out of bounds. (Again, the receiving team has the option.)
Further adjustments are possible as owners reflect on the proposal. And further adjustments could occur if the proposal is not tabled until May so that more time can be spent reflecting on the realities of the dramatic change in the beginning and its consequences, both intended and unintended.