New NFL kickoff rules: An explainer

The league has overhauled kickoffs, scrapping the traditional format and using a modified version that debuted in the XFL. Gone are the long, running head-starts that sent players hurtling into one another as the ball is booted into the air. Instead, kickoffs now resemble more traditional scrimmage plays, with players lined up in new "zones" much closer to one another — and they aren't allowed to move until a particular time.

The league's hope: Fewer touchbacks, more excitement and fewer injuries.

Under the new kickoff rule, kickers will still kick from the 35-yard line but the other 10 coverage players will lineup at the receiving team’s 40.

At least nine members of the return team will line up in a “setup zone” directly in front of them between the 35- and 30-yard lines.

Up to two returners can line up in a “landing zone” between the goal line and the 20-yard line, but teams can also elect to have one returner.

No one other than the kicker and returners can move until the ball hits the ground or hits a player inside the landing zone. The kicker cannot cross midfield until that happens.

Kickoffs that hit in the landing zone must be returned. If the ball rolls into the end zone and is downed, it will be placed at the 20.

Touchbacks will be marked at the 30, and no fair catches are allowed.

The rule eliminates two strategic elements: surprise onside kicks and squib kicks that were used to burn seconds off the clock at the end of games and halves. Teams will still be allowed to employ traditional onside kicks, but only twice per game and only in the fourth quarter. Teams will have to inform officials and their opponent of their intent to attempt the play.

It's a small sample size — 49 preseason games — but so far, the NFL's new kickoff rules have achieved what the league intended.