Trump Criticizes NFL‘s New Kickoff Rule, Calling it “Ridiculous”
Donald Trump has publicly criticized the NFL’s recently implemented kickoff rule changes, deeming them “ridiculous” and comparing the game to “wet pool football.” The former president voiced his disapproval on his social media platform Monday,questioning the speed and magnitude of the alteration.
The NFL introduced an experimental kickoff format in 2024 aimed at increasing the return rate – rising from 21.8% in 2023 to 32.8% last season – and, crucially, reducing injuries. league officials reported a 43% decrease in concussion rates during kickoff returns, alongside a notable reduction in lower body injuries.
Despite these safety improvements, Trump argued the new rule is ”at least as dangerous as the ’normal’ kickoff and it looks like [hell].” he further stated,”The ball moves and the players do not move,it is exactly the opposite of what football is. American football of ‘sissy’ is bad for America, and bad for the NFL!” He contrasted the NFL’s changes with college football, expressing hope that the collegiate game will “remain the same forever.”
Trump’s comments reflect a broader trend of the NFL prioritizing player safety over traditional gameplay, with coverage rules modified to limit player movement until the returner reaches the ball.
