The UFL just released its 2026 rulebook, and it’s a clear departure from traditional pro football. The league is leaning harder into its “experimental” identity, prioritizing high-stakes kicking and aggressive fourth-down decision-making.
Here’s the breakdown of the major changes coming this season.
The 4-Point Field Goal
In a massive shift for special teams, the UFL has introduced a 4-point field goal for any successful kick from 60 yards or further. This turns the long-range field goal into a strategic weapon, particularly at the end of halves where a four-point deficit no longer requires a touchdown to overcome.
| Season | Kickers | Made (60+) | Att (60+) | Longest Make |
| 2024 | Jake Bates (MICH) | 3 | 4 | 64 yards |
| 2025 | All Kickers | 0 | ~5* | 56 yards |
No Punting in Opponent Territory
The “coward punt” is officially dead. Teams are now prohibited from punting while inside the opponent’s 50-yard line (specifically the +49 and in).
- The Rule: You must go for it on 4th down or attempt a field goal.
- The Exception: This restriction is lifted during the final two minutes of the second and fourth quarters.
- The Penalty Factor: If you are inside the 50 when the ball is made ready for play, you cannot punt—even if a sack or penalty subsequently pushes you back into your own territory.
The End of the Tush Push
The UFL has officially banned the “Tush Push” (or Brotherly Shove). Offensive players are no longer allowed to stay behind the quarterback and physically push him forward into the line of scrimmage. This forces teams to return to traditional QB sneaks or find new ways to pick up short-yardage first downs.
One-Foot Catch Rule
Aligning with the NCAA, the UFL will now only require one foot in bounds for a legal catch. This is a deliberate move to increase the completion percentage on sideline throws and create more explosive plays in the passing game.
Modified PAT and Overtime
- PAT Options: The 1-point kick (from the 33-yard line) returns, alongside the 2-point (from the 2-yard line) and 3-point (from the 8-yard line) scrimmage plays.
- Overtime Shootout: The shootout format now grants teams three attempts each from the 5-yard line. If the score remains tied after three rounds, it moves to a “sudden death” alternating format until a winner is decided.
2026 Kickoff Alignment
The league’s signature kickoff is getting a slight adjustment to the starting positions:
- Kickoff Line: The ball is kicked from the 30-yard line.
- Team Alignment: The kicking team now lines up at the receiving team’s 45-yard line (previously the 40).
- Landing Zone: The ball must land between the 20-yard line and the goal line.
- Touchback Penalty: Kicking the ball into the end zone for a touchback results in the receiving team getting the ball at the 40-yard line, making the “safe” play much more costly.
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