The Kansas City Chiefs’ assistant head coach and special teams coordinator, Dave Toub, recently dismissed President Donald Trump’s criticism of the NFL’s new kickoff rules. Toub, responding to media inquiries, stated that the president “doesn’t even know what he’s looking at” regarding the changes. His remarks came on Thursday as he reflected on Trump’s ongoing critiques.
Trump’s Take on NFL Kickoff Rules
President Trump has consistently voiced his disapproval of the revised kickoff regulations. In a post on the social media platform Truth Social earlier in the season, he described the new kickoff rule as “ridiculous.” He argued that the changes is as dangerous as the traditional kickoff method, asserting it distorts the essence of football by having players inactive while the ball is in motion.
Comments on the Pat McAfee Show
During a recent appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Trump elaborated on his feelings towards the new rules. He expressed that he “hates” the new kickoff, labeling it “demeaning” and detrimental to the sport’s integrity and excitement. Trump claimed he had conveyed similar sentiments to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.
Safety and Player Experience Concerns
Central to Trump’s criticism is the issue of player safety. He stated, “I don’t think it’s any safer,” highlighting the collisions that occur even with the revised rules. Trump believes the essence of the game is altered, asserting the reality of players not moving while the ball is airborne contradicts traditional football dynamics.
Impact of New Kickoff Rules
Despite the controversy, the new kickoff rules have resulted in increased excitement in the NFL. However, they have also coincided with a rise in injuries. Here are some key statistics from the 2025 season so far:
- Kickoff Return Rate: 79.3% of kickoffs were returned within the first seven weeks.
- Previous Season Comparison: Only 31.7% of kickoffs were returned during the same period last season.
The debate surrounding the evolving kickoff rules highlights the tension between enhancing player safety and preserving the traditional aspects of the game. As the season progresses, discussions around these changes are likely to continue gaining traction, both among fans and officials alike.
