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NFL Rumors: Rule Change to Use XFL Kickoff Model Discussed by Competition Committee

The NFL Competition Committee discussed a proposal to change NFL kickoff rules Sunday, according to NFL.com's Judy Battista.

The XFL-style rule would mandate all players except for the kicker and returner line up five yards apart for kickoffs, as NBC Sports' Michael David Smith previously explained.

This change would be designed to "encourage more returns, but reduce high-speed collisions," Battista wrote.

The committee's proposal would need approval from 24 owners in order to pass, per Battista, who said the vote could take place in March.