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We'll see a new kickoff rule implemented the next time NFL games are played.
Whenever that is.
NFL owners passed a rule today which will move kickoffs from the 30-yard line to the 35. The rule that was passed is a modified version of one which was proposed last week by the competition committee. The original rule also included moving touchbacks to the 25-yard line and eliminating a two-man blocking wedge.
Owners - and their coaches - were not a fan of either of those two rules, so touchbacks will stay at the 20, and the wedge will still be allowed.
The question from the Ravens' perspective is whether Billy Cundiff will still provide them with a major edge in the kickoff department, or whether this rule will bring that advantage back down to earth.
Thinking there is two-pronged; kickoffs will be easier for all other teams to notch now, and the Ravens might opt to have Cundiff change the trajectory of his kickoffs, putting more air under the ball and going with less distance.
We'll have to see how that plays out.
A separate rule was also approved by owners, one which will allow a replay official to review all scoring plays during games. This is similar to the collegiate system, and will take some of the weight off coaches to throw a challenge flag on close scoring plays.
Coaches will still be allowed two challenges per game, and can earn a third if they are deemed correct the first two times they throw the challenge flag.
