When NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell adopted XFL’s Dynamic Kickoff Rule into the league, it was liked by few and hated by many. One of the most high-profile persons to criticize the rule was Donald Trump, who claimed that it was dangerous for the players. Since then, rumors arose that a change in the rule was imminent.
Now, Goodell has succumbed to the pressure. Goodell said on GMFB that the dynamic kickoff rule might be changed to the 35-yard line. Though he didn’t specify when the change will be finalized and implemented, the competition committee will discuss it in a meeting soon. Trump did affect how the fans and the league officials perceived the rule.
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Roger Goodell just said on GMFB that moving the dynamic kickoff touchback to the 35-yard-line “would be a game-changer right away.”
It sure sounds like it’s a matter of when, not if, it’s going to happen.
— Andrew Siciliano (@AndrewSiciliano) October 1, 2024
After attending the college football game between Georgia and Alabama, the former president spoke harshly about the new rule. Speaking to OutKick founder Clay Travis, Trump said, “I don’t know what they’re doing with the kickoff return in the NFL. And I don’t want to get involved in controversy, of course, but it looks so bad. And I think the NFL should go back.” Many fans echoed the statement. And the 20-yard touchback line defied the purpose Goodell implemented it for.
NFL Commissioner said that he wanted to make play safer while increasing the returns. That has happened. There’s an 85% increase. But regarding the safety level, he acknowledged that there isn’t enough data. With the new update, there might be changes. But it wouldn’t be sudden. Teams will get time to prepare.
The Commissioner also has big plans for the future. NFL’s going worldwide.
What’s your perspective on:
Is Roger Goodell caving to Trump’s demands a sign of weak leadership in the NFL?
Have an interesting take?
Roger Goodell is planning more international games
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Last month, the NFL’s international schedule started in Brazil. The event was majestic. It wasn’t only a game. Superstars performed throughout the day. And fans were pumped up. Sao Paulo was brimming with fans dressed in NFL jerseys, showing their love. Goodell was also present there. He is happy that everything went as expected.
Moreover, it has given him the confidence to go big. He has got authorization from owners to plan 8 international games which he wants to take to 16. While talking about the excitement of the game, he said, “A lot of enthusiasm, excitement over the game, and I believe great potential. So, we’ll be back there, I’m sure. We’re going to continue to grow. I think we’ll end up going to 16 (international) games at some point in time.”
He has climbed the ladder of authority while watching the league hit international shores. And his perspective has gotten stronger from there. He saw the game being played in Japan and London when fans didn’t understand it. Now that the fans want to watch live action, the NFL Commissioner is ready to take it one step further.
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Roger Goodell has been a solid presence as the Commissioner. And the league has grown under his watch. Stay connected for more updates from the top authority.
Debate
Is Roger Goodell caving to Trump’s demands a sign of weak leadership in the NFL?