NFL changes kickoff rules and bans hip-drop tackles

Between the lines: Kickoff returns were at an all-time low last season (only 22% of all kickoffs were returned) and, after analyzing the last two seasons, the league found that hip-drop tackles were responsible for more lower body injuries than other tackles.

What to know about the new NFL kickoff rule

The new kickoff format, called the dynamic kickoff, looks like the XFL's and will be in effect for one year before the league reevaluates it in 2025.

• This changes where the kicker and kickoff team start and adds a new landing zone.

How it works:

• The kicker will start on the 35-yard line while the kickoff team starts on the receiving team's 40-yard line.
• The 20-yard line to the end zone is now the landing zone and if the kick doesn't reach this zone, the ball will be placed at the 40-yard line. If the ball goes into the end zone, it will then be placed on the 30-yard line.

Worthy of your time: "The new formation is meant to be like a regular play from scrimmage instead of having players running the length of the field and colliding," the NFL told Axios in a statement.

What is a hip-drop tackle and why is it banned?

In March league owners unanimously voted to make the hip-drop tackle illegal — its use will result in a 15-yard penalty and an automatic first-down.

• A hip-drop tackle occurs when a tackler grabs a runner with both hands or arms, then swivels and drops his hips to bring the runner to the ground, often landing on the runner's legs below the knee.

What they're saying: Some former and current players approve of the ban, while others dislike it.

• Former defensive end J.J. Watt, compared it to flag football in a tweet, while former running back Kenyan Drake supported the new rule, stating his injury in 2021 was due to a hip-drop tackle.

Ahead of March's decision, the NFL's labor union released a statement in opposition.

• "While the NFLPA remains committed to improvement to our game with health and safety in mind, we cannot support a rule change that causes confusion for us as players, for coaches, for officials and especially, for fans."

The bottom line: Viewers can expect more flags and penalties this season as players and refs adjust to the changes.

More from Axios:

• NFL said to meet with PE firms ahead of owners' vote
• Sunday Ticket trial loss could overhaul NFL's media rights model
• NFL Draft brings $200 million to city: report

Editor's note: This story has been corrected to reflect that if the ball goes into the end zone, it will be placed on the 30-yard line, not the 35.