The National Football League (NFL) has several new rules in place for 2025, with most changes occurring during the kickoff and overtime periods. Before, all touchbacks would get placed at the 30-yard line; now, they get placed at the 35-yard line. This was implemented to encourage more returns. 

The dynamic kick-off, from 2024, is becoming a permanent one. During the 2024 Season, the rule was introduced, requiring all players to wait until the ball had been caught and to determine if the return was going to be completed at the start of a kickoff. This rule ended up helping with more returns to be returned, or at least make it to the 30-yard line.  

By implementing the first-down system, the instant replay rule will take effect. 

The first down system better known as the (Vitrial camera based system) will be helpful since it can view it, as a virtual system to help yard gain become more accurate. It will also determine “line to gain” which will help officials determine the extract spot for the ball on the field.    

Changes made to the injured reserve (IR) allow teams to get two players to return after they miss at least four games. The new return policy does not count against the 53-man roster while being on the IR list. Although players do not meet the criteria, they must be placed on injured reserve under the 53-man roster. 

These new rules will give the NFL more player safety, fewer penalties and will develop a more dynamic game.