Former Utah Representative and current Fox News contributor Jason Chaffetz believes the NFL can boost fan excitement by tweaking several long‑standing rules. Drawing on his own experience as a former BYU placekicker, Chaffetz offers four concrete proposals that would add strategy, skill and drama to every game.

1. Redesign the Field‑Goal Target

Chaffetz suggests turning the traditional field‑goal attempt into a rectangular target that forces kickers to place the ball precisely between the uprights without sending it too high. The change would require referees to judge whether the ball passes through the new shape, turning routine 38‑yard kicks into a more challenging, watchable contest.

2. Extend Field‑Goal Distance

While NFL kickers already boast 70‑80‑yard practice range, Chaffetz argues the league should encourage attempts from beyond 50 yards in game situations. By rewarding longer, more accurate kicks, teams would gain a strategic weapon that could shift momentum and keep fans on the edge of their seats.

3. Introduce a “Sprint‑to‑Midfield” Possession Race

Inspired by a fast‑break concept, Chaffett proposes lining up one player from each team on the goal line at the start of a play. When the referee whistles, the two sprint to the ball placed at the 50‑yard line. The first to recover it earns possession at the 20‑yard line, while the opponent starts at the 50‑yard line if the ball remains out of bounds. This replaces the on‑side kick and adds a thrilling, head‑to‑head showdown.

4. Revamp Overtime Rules

Chaffett recommends adopting the college‑football playoff overtime format: each team receives a possession, with no coin toss. The home team decides the initial play, and teams alternate until a winner emerges. This ensures both sides have a fair chance and eliminates the advantage of a strong kicker in sudden‑death scenarios.

Chaffett also notes two ancillary ideas: adopting larger, softer helmets for player safety and ending lengthy halftime concerts that distract from the game. He urges the NFL to test these proposals in preseason matchups next year, allowing teams and fans to evaluate the impact before full implementation.

By embracing these changes, Chaffett argues the league can restore unpredictability, increase strategic depth and deliver a more engaging product for families and traditional football fans alike.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.