trump Criticizes NFL Kickoff Rule Change, Calling it “Wimp Football”
WASHINGTON D.C. – Former President Donald Trump has publicly criticized the NFL’s recent adjustments to kickoff rules, labeling the changes “wimp football” and asserting they are “bad for america and the NFL!” in a post on his social media platform, Truth Social.
The NFL modified the kickoff procedure last season to reduce player injuries, specifically limiting full-speed rushes. The rule change initially involved the ball being kicked forward after the kick, but was further adjusted this season. The receiving team’s starting position improved from their own 30-yard line to the 35-yard line, providing a better opportunity to return the ball. The original change was implemented to mitigate both immediate game-day risks and potential long-term damage to players.
Trump expressed a desire to revert to the previous kickoff format, contrasting it favorably with college football, stating, “luckily everything is the same, hopefully forever.”
it remains unclear whether NFL leadership will respond to Trump’s criticism or consider further adjustments to the rule.His statement is currently viewed as the opinion of a prominent outsider, though his influence remains a factor.