Niners Nation · Mar 24, 2016
New touchback rule could result in more 'mortar' kicks
The NFL announced on Wednesday that touchbacks on kickoffs will be treated in 2016. Touchbacks previously meant the offense started on the 20-yard line. The new rule has touchbacks on kickoffs bring the offense out to the 25-yard line. The rule only applies to kickoffs, and is only applicable in 2016. More than likely, it will be made permanent a year from now, like the league did with moving back the extra point spot.
The rule change seemed to indicate touchbacks would be more likely, and the league was working to remove the kickoff from the game. However, current kicker Graham Gano and former kicker Jay Feely suggested otherwise.
