NFL’s 2026 rulebook allows an onside-kick declaration at any time
The published rule-change summary includes a change to when the kicking team can declare an onside attempt.
The official 2026 NFL rulebook identifies an update to Rule 6-1-6: the kicking team may declare an onside kick at any point during a game.
Why it matters when watching
When an onside attempt is announced, viewers should look at the procedure used for that declared play. The change concerns permission to declare the attempt; it should not be read as removing the rest of the kickoff rules.
Other changes in the same summary
The NFL also lists changes to receiving-team alignment, the touchback spot for kickoffs from the 50-yard line, and league consultation with on-field officials about potential player disqualification.
The official rulebook is the reference for the full conditions. This is a short guide to its published change summary, not a report of a new proposal or a substitute for the complete rules.
Sources
This report was drafted with AI assistance from the official sources listed above and reviewed before publication.