Chicago Bears Excitement Builds with New Kickoff Rules

Hightower Addresses Media at Press Conference

Geo-restricted to Markets Where Game is Available

During a recent press conference, Chicago Bears coach Richard Hightower expressed his excitement about the new kickoff rules for the upcoming season.

Hightower believes the changes, which include moving the kickoff line from the 35-yard line to the 40-yard line and giving the receiving team the option to fair catch the kickoff inside the 25-yard line, will make the game more exciting and safer.

"I think it's going to be a lot more competitive," Hightower said. "It's going to give the receiving team a lot more options, and it's going to make it a lot more difficult for the kicking team to get a touchback."

The new rules are part of the NFL's ongoing effort to reduce concussions and other injuries in the game. According to the league, kickoffs are one of the most dangerous plays in football.

The Bears will kick off the preseason against the Houston Texans in the 2024 NFL Hall of Fame game in Canton, Ohio. The game will be available to watch live on ESPN's Watch ESPN live stream.

Fans in markets where the game is not available will be able to listen to the game on the radio or follow along on the NFL's website.