The removal of the kicker position was something that was in the works for years. By adding the point value of the kicker to the Defense/Special Teams, now that position truly resembles the name given.
By eliminating two draft positions, we allowed for two flex players. This was the first time that you did not have to have a set amount of positional players drafted. This would allow flexibility in trades and an easier way to handcuff star positions.
We also did what was a long time coming; they created a keeper league. Ten trusted owners took part in a 28-round draft for the first year of the league. Detailed rules were given and no longer were you just playing for the current season.