Why Are They Fair Catching Kickoffs?

The fair catch signal was put in place to protect players from being hit as they try to receive the ball. See the rules below. Players who are signaling for a fair catch on a kickoff must put their hand high above their head and wave it back and forth.

What is the new fair catch rule?

NFL and NFHS rules

To request a fair catch, the receiver must raise one arm fully above their head and wave it from side to side while the ball is in flight. Once the signal is given, the kicking team may not interfere with the receiver's attempt to catch the ball.

Why is it called a fair catch?

A receiver calls for a "fair catch" if the defenders are so near that the receiver believes that he will be tackled in that 1-2 second interval during which he will secure the ball. That is, he will not be able to start running before being tackled, and fears the possibility of a fumble.