New Rules, New Looks, New Markets: The NFL’s Bold 2025 Offseason

By: Sam Heller

April 25th, 2025

Photo Credit: NBC News

The 2025 NFL Owners Meetings in Florida brought a flurry of changes and debates that will shape the league's future on and off the field. Among the most notable decisions was the overhaul of regular-season overtime, which now guarantees both teams a possession, matching the postseason format. If the game remains tied after those possessions, it moves to sudden death. Overtime will still be capped at 10 minutes, with games ending in a tie if no winner emerges - a key difference from the playoffs.

Another major change is the permanent adoption of the "dynamic kickoff" - the formation where players can’t move until the ball is caught. This was tested in 2024 and is now locked in for 2025, with a new twist: touchbacks will now place the ball at the 35-yard line instead of the 30. The league expects this to dramatically increase kickoff return attempts, potentially jumping from 32.8% last season to 60–70%. It’s part of the NFL’s effort to make special teams more exciting without compromising safety.

On the officiating front, the league also expanded its replay assist system. Officials can now receive video assistance on controversial penalty calls such as intentional grounding, roughing the passer, and hits on runners out of bounds, but only if a flag has already been thrown. This aims to correct errors in real time without allowing replay officials to throw new flags retroactively, striking a balance between accuracy and flow of the game.

But not everything was settled. Three hot-button issues were tabled until May:

1. The "Tush Push": made famous (and nearly unstoppable) by the Eagles sparked intense discussion about safety, aesthetics, and competitive fairness. Despite no recorded injuries, some owners are concerned about the rugby-like optics of the play. Commissioner Roger Goodell hinted at a return to pre-2004 rules when pushing a ballcarrier was illegal.

2. A reseeded playoff format based solely on regular season record regardless of division standing was also postponed. Proposed by the Lions, this change could alter home-field dynamics and potentially reduce the automatic playoff perks for weak division winners. Goodell called it a “very healthy” proposal with strong data behind it.

3. Onside kick rule modifications were also delayed, as the league considers alternatives to improve recovery rates (just 3 of 50 were successful last season).

These tabled proposals are expected to be revisited at the NFL Spring League Meeting on May 20–21 in Minnesota, where more definitive action could be taken.

Global Markets Program Expands: NFL Looks Abroad

The NFL continues its international push with a major expansion of its Global Markets Program in 2025. Four new clubs, the Ravens, Packers, Chargers, and Commanders, joined the program, and two new markets, Greece and the United Arab Emirates, were added. Teams like the Chiefs, Raiders, and Eagles also expanded their rights across Europe, South America, and Oceania. With 29 teams now holding international marketing rights in 21 countries, the league is clearly laying groundwork for sustained global fan base growth. While an international franchise is still unlikely for now, this expansion reinforces the league's commitment to long-term overseas engagement.

Throwback Uniforms: More Looks, More Revenue

Fans of nostalgia can rejoice. NFL teams can now wear throwback or alternate uniforms up to four times per season, up from three. Alternate helmets will also be allowed with both home and away jerseys, giving teams more creative flexibility. With throwbacks accounting for nearly 30% of jersey sales, this change is a smart business play, especially as Nike extends its uniform deal through 2038. Still, teams will be restricted from wearing alternate jerseys in the Super Bowl to maintain brand consistency on the game’s biggest stage.

Flag Football at LA28: Debate Over Player Participation

Flag football’s debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics is creating tension in NFL circles. Commissioner Goodell and the NFLPA are enthusiastic about letting players represent their countries, seeing it as a chance to grow the sport globally. However, many owners are cautious due to timing conflicts with training camp and potential injury risks. A resolution is expected in the coming months, with insurance coverage likely to be a key factor, similar to arrangements made in MLB, NHL, and NBA for international play.

In Case You Missed It: Big Moves in Free Agency

It’s been a wild offseason. The Seahawks signed Sam Darnold to a surprising three-year, $100.5M deal, while the Jets added Justin Fields on a two-year, $40M contract. Josh Allen and Matthew Stafford both secured lucrative extensions and All-Pro edge rushers Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby landed record-breaking deals. The Patriots restocked their defense under new head coach Mike Vrabel, and trades sent big names like Deebo Samuel, DK Metcalf, and Geno Smith to new teams. With a few major names including Aaron Rodgers still unsigned, the second wave of free agency should bring more fireworks.