'This is the coolest thing': How NFL coaches and players are preparing for the brand new kickoff rules

NFL teams have 163 days before the regular season starts to practice the new kickoff rules.

The league's new alignment is modeled after what the XFL implemented in 2020 and used again in 2023 .

The XFL used more extreme rules to discourage teams from kicking the ball out of the end zone.

The NFL projects it will more than double the rate of returns from 2023 season .

A touchback will be spotted at the 20 -yard line if the ball lands in a "target zone" between the goal line and the end zone.

Most teams are likely to deploy two returners to ensure they can pick up those bouncing balls before that happens.

Some teams have wondered whether putting the ball in play so often will expose kickers to injury.

Teams are bracing for an impact far beyond the actual return numbers.

Three other metrics could change in significant ways: the variance of field position, fourth -down attempts and punt totals.

Last season , 88% of kickoffs resulted in teams taking possession between the 21- and 30-yard lines.