NFL, Madden NFL 25 join to explain the new kickoff rules (2024)

FAQs

What is the NFL's new kickoff rule? ›

The new rules work like this: For a standard kickoff, the ball is kicked from the 35-yard line with 10 kick coverage players lined up at the opposing team's 40-yard line.

The NFL's new kickoff format was designed with two objectives. The architects of the revamped alignment intend for it to increase the sagging number of returns while aiming for a reduced injury rate more in line with that of a play from the line of scrimmage.

The league has introduced a "Dynamic Kickoff" borrowed from the XFL, and it's changing the way special teams operate on the field. The new setup is a game-changer. While the ball is still booted from the 35-yard line-just like before-the alignment of the players is what's throwing everyone for a loop.

But did you know with the new NFL kickoff in Madden NFL 25, we also have some new components all focused on giving you more control: Personnel Packages: Before selecting your kickoff formation, you can use the Right-Stick to select different personnel packages for kickoffs!

MERCY RULE

24-Point Rule: If a team is up by 24 points or more in the 4th quarter, the game is a mercy victory for the leading team if losing team agrees and has had the ball at least once in the 2^nd Half.

Under Rule 17 of the NFL rulebook, the commissioner also has the authority to overturn a game result (that is, order a forfeit loss to the offending team and a walkover win for the wronged team), order the game to be fully replayed, or to discard the results of the game from the unfair act onward and resume play from ...

Once the referee has given the signal for the kick-off, the ball is kicked in any direction. The ball is in play once it is kicked and clearly moves.

The front five must first defend the onside kick. Once the ball is kicked deep, they sprint back to approximately the 25-yard line to the position of the QB. The center, guards and the right tackle move to their left while retreating and center the formation in front of the QB.

In American football, a gunner, also known as a shooter, flyer, headhunter, or kamikaze, is a player on kickoffs and punts who specializes in running down the sideline very quickly in an attempt to tackle the kick or punt returner.

“Kick-off point” means the point at which a directional well is intentionally deviated from vertical.

Is Madden 25 a real game? ›

Madden 25 plays differently than last year's edition, making it feel like a new game. The graphics are great, and the overall presentation onscreen is good. If you've been down on the franchise, there might be enough here to lure you back in.

The exception is if you can't see an open receiver on first or second down: in these circ*mstances, dash outside the pocket and throw the ball away by pushing in any direction on the right stick.

How you do it is while holding R2 for Coach Cam then hold L2 + Square/X or L2 + Circle/B for run fits left and right.