Donald Trump won’t stop complaining about the NFL’s kickoff rules

Beginning in the 2024 season, the NFL rolled out a new kickoff format that was designed to reduce injuries and encourage kickoff returns. While it’s largely accomplished its goals, United States President Donald Trump has spoken out against the change almost every chance he gets. The NFL introduced the “dynamic kickoff” ahead of the 2024 season.

Under the new system, players from the kicking team are positioned at the opposition’s 40-yard line instead of behind the kicker. This closer starting point is meant to reduce high-speed collisions between the kicking team and the receiving team. Under this rule, a designated “landing zone” extends from the receiving team’s goal line to the 20-yard line.

Two returners are placed within this zone and, aside from the kicker, are the only players allowed to move before the ball touches down. The new kickoff format worked well enough in 2024 that the league made the change permanent. Trump, however, is not a fan.

Trump has constantly criticized the move , going back to September of 2024 when he called it the “beginning of the end” for the league. “I can’t believe the NFL is effectively getting rid of the always exciting Kick Off Return. Such an exciting part of football.