NRL considers new kick-off rule to enhance player safety in 2025

The National Rugby League (NRL) is reportedly considering a significant rule change for the 2025 NRL season, aimed at reducing head injuries linked to high-impact collisions during kick-offs.

Discussions are underway around penalising teams that kick beyond the opposition’s 20-metre line on the full by awarding the receiving team a seven-tackle set.

This proposed rule change would encourage teams to adjust their kick-off strategies, potentially opting for shorter, higher kicks to regain possession or softer kicks that bounce before the 20-metre mark, thus lowering the risk of high-speed collisions on return plays.

The issue gained attention after a serious incident in this year’s Anzac Day game, where Dragons’ Moses Suli was concussed in a collision with Sydney Roosters’ Jared Waerea-Hargreaves during the opening kick-off.

The NRL’s Elite Football department head, Graham Annesley, acknowledged the natural collision risks in the sport but indicated that kick-offs could be modified to enhance player safety.

Player safety has been a central focus for the NRL, which recently revised the line dropout rule to add variety without compromising safety. However, the proposed kick-off change is expected to generate debate, particularly among traditionalists who see long kick-offs as integral to rugby league.

If implemented, this rule change would mark another step in the NRL’s ongoing efforts to reduce concussion risks and protect player welfare on the field.

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