Former U.S. Representative Jason Chaffetz has outlined four proposals aimed at revitalizing the National Football League's kicking game, which he argues has become predictable and dull despite kickers' increasing proficiency.

Chaffetz, a former collegiate placekicker himself, asserts that modern NFL kickers are capable of extreme distances and accuracy, making traditional scoring plays less engaging for viewers. He suggests that the league has not adapted its kicking game sufficiently following rule changes, such as the move back of extra points and alterations to kickoffs.

Revising the Field Goal Structure

One of Chaffetz's primary suggestions is to add a crossbar to the top of the existing field goal posts, creating a rectangular target. This change, he believes, would challenge kickers to place the ball precisely within the uprights rather than simply kicking it high enough to clear the crossbar, which he deems too routine. He notes that many NFL-level kickers can achieve 70- to 80-yard field goals in practice, and currently, trajectory is the main differentiator between collegiate and professional kicking. Adding a target would introduce a new layer of difficulty and excitement, akin to a golfer using a specific iron for a shot.

Overhauling Game Start and Post-Score Procedures

Chaffetz also proposes eliminating the traditional opening coin toss and kickoff. Instead, he suggests a footrace to the 50-yard line between one player from each team. The player who recovers the ball first would secure possession for their team, starting at their own 20-yard line. Should the ball not be recovered in bounds, the home team would gain possession at the 50-yard line.

Furthermore, he advocates for eliminating the kickoff following a score. Under his proposal, the scoring team would start with the ball at their own 35-yard line and would have one play to advance 20 yards to retain possession. Failure to do so would result in the opposing team taking possession. This concept is designed to replace the on-side kick and would introduce strategic considerations, similar to live punts where the receiving team can block, fair catch, or return the ball.

Reimagining Overtime Rules

Chaffetz argues against