It's a great idea. You can't really do it on punts unless you're conceding that you won't run a fake, right?
I think that the tradeoff would be worth it; not that many fakes are run to begin with, and it would enhance the return game which has been missing for quite some time, for the most part.
They aren's a higher risk activity are they?
Only kicks were eliminated, and 2 or 3 point conversions are allowed, which are more interesting to watch and also create more chances for differences in points and ability to make comebacks.
No, I do not believe that they are safety risks, though I always hated snapping back in the day because you could just plow the center.
Don't like the no PAT (I would Prefer the kicker have to kick from the 3yd line directly behind where the ball broke the plane of the end zone).
I also think the 3pt conversion is pretty goofy. But still you probably have to try a couple goofy ideas to find a good one and it seems there hit rate is 50/50, which is actually quite good (75/25, depending on how one feels about PAT rule, I think they identified a real issue, but their solution wasn't much of an improvement). The 3pt conversion seems like a solution in search of a problem
I don't think anything should be so sacred that we can't consider it. 30 years ago I enjoyed watching someone impale the opposing QB on their helmet, and it made sense to change those rules (for the most part) to protect health and safety.
(please don't adopt the NCAA overtime rule, though - that one is stupid)
As far as the success of the XFL and USFL, I don't know what is the key to getting more viewers. 75+ years ago they didn't have to worry about TV contracts and there were fewer competitors for attention. Today you have to gin up a fandom AND get viewers and do a modern team from sctatch.
I look at MLS as an example - the Portland Timbers regularly sell out, but it took a long time for US soccer to get to that point. However, they're at a point where there is a hometown following and rabid fan base.