After adapting the kick-off rule for the 2022 season and teams having to adjust on special teams, the new rule slowly bears fruit. After eight weeks this season, the league already saw nine kick-off return touchdowns. That’s one touchdown more than the league saw the entire 2021 season.

While the European League of Football is almost entirely based on NFL rules, the kick-off rule is different. To enhance player’s safety and create more opportunities for big plays, the decision to change the rule was made by league Commissioner Patrick Esume, the European League of Football referee committee, the competition committee, and the Head of Medical Commission Olaf Baack.

Fewer major head injuries

"Seeing an idea flourish, which minimizes the risk of head injuries in a contact sport, is great. We have always stressed being a `player's league’ and this helps every athlete to potentially have a longer playing career. We see fewer major head injuries in kick-off returns with more highlights every week", Commissioner Patrick Esume said as a first résumé.

An explanation: The defending team will start on the opponent's 35-yard line, the return team on its own 30-yard line. When the ball is kicked, only the kicker and returner are allowed to move. If the returner touches the ball, all players are allowed to run, block and tackle. The same is true three seconds after the ball touches the ground.

The European League of Football is further developing football on the continent.