The Hall of Fame Game featured the Chicago Bears defeating the Houston Texans 21-17 in a weather-shortened contest, where the NFL's new kickoff rules were put to the test. The game saw only one touchback out of eight kickoffs, a significant change from last season's high touchback rate. Players and coaches expressed mixed feelings about the new rules, with some highlighting the potential for more explosive plays while others noted the lack of big returns.

• The new kickoff rules aim to promote more returns, but the first game under these rules saw limited big plays.
• Coaches are still figuring out the best strategies for kickoff returns and coverage.