What is a touchback in football?

[jenniferjohnson]

I often hear the term “touchback” while watching National Football League games but don’t fully understand it.
When exactly does a touchback happen, and what does it mean for field position?
A simple explanation would really help clarify it.

 

[henrysullivan]

In the National Football League, a touchback happens when the ball is downed in the end zone of the receiving team after a kickoff or a punt. Instead of trying to return the ball, the team simply takes over at their own 25-yard line for kickoffs or the 20-yard line in certain other situations. It’s a neat way to reset the play without any return attempt.

 

[masoncole]

In the National Football League, a touchback happens when the ball is downed in the end zone following a kickoff or a punt. After that, the receiving team starts their drive at their own 25-yard line on kickoffs.

 

[mila]

A touchback happens when the ball lands or is downed in the end zone on a kickoff or punt and the receiving team just takes it at the 25-yard line instead of running it back. It's basically a safe option to avoid getting tackled deep in your own territory.

 

[Georgina]

In National Football League and other forms of American football, a touchback happens when the ball becomes dead in the receiving team’s own end zone after a kickoff, punt, or missed field goal. Instead of returning the ball, the offense starts possession from a designated yard line, usually the 20- or 25-yard line.