The Loophole
The Philadelphia Eagles have been pulling a total power move lately, exploiting a vague spot in the NFL rulebook to give their kicker, Jake Elliott, an unfair advantage. For the last two weeks, they’ve been sending punter Braden Mann onto the field as a 12th man during kickoffs. His job? To hold the ball directly on the ground for Elliott, setting up a "dirty ball"—a tricky, low knuckleball that is a nightmare for return teams to field.
Why it’s happening
When the NFL introduced the "dynamic kickoff" in 2024, they made a specific exception allowing a 12th player on the field to serve as a holder. The rule was intended to help teams keep the ball steady on a tee during super windy games. However, the rulebook says teams may use a tee; it doesn't explicitly state that a holder must use one.
The Verdict
It’s giving main character energy, but the NFL isn't having it. Bears special teams coordinator Richard Hightower confirmed on Friday that the league plans to patch the ambiguity. Real talk: if you’re using a holder, you’ll soon be required to place the ball on a tee—no more direct-on-the-ground setups. The one exception? Onside kicks, where placing the ball on the turf remains totally legal.
Why it matters
Strategies like this usually spread fast in the NFL once teams catch on. The Eagles get to keep the exploit for now, but the league is moving quickly to restore the "spirit" of the new kickoff format and prevent a copycat trend.
