Big Changes Coming to NFL Rules: Key Insights and FAQs

🔀The hip drop tackle, a technique known for causing injuries, will be eliminated from the game as part of the new rules.

⏪Replay assist will be used to correct fouls like roughing the passer and intentional grounding, based on clear and objective evidence.

🏈The kickoff rule is being modified to encourage returns while reducing the risk of injuries.

❓Coaches have expressed concerns about potential unintended consequences of the modified kickoff rule, such as an increase in kick return touchdowns.

🕒The rules changes are still being discussed and may undergo further tweaks before being finalized.

What is the hip drop tackle?

—The hip drop tackle is a specific swivel hip drop technique where a defender turns to the side and unweights into the back of an opponent's legs or ankles. It has a high injury rate and is being eliminated from the game.

What is replay assist?

—Replay assist allows the replay assistant, without a challenge, to correct calls such as roughing the passer and intentional grounding based on clear and objective evidence. This is the first time fouls like roughing the passer are being opened up to replay review.

What is the modified kickoff rule?

—The modified kickoff rule moves the setup zone for the kick return and kickoff teams to the plus side of the field, reducing the space and speed into the play. The goal is to encourage returns while minimizing the risk of injuries.

What are the concerns about the modified kickoff rule?

—Some coaches have raised concerns about potential unintended consequences, such as an increase in kick return touchdowns due to the positioning of players on the field. The rule changes are still being discussed and may undergo further revisions.

Are these rule changes final?

—The rule changes discussed are still being reviewed and may undergo further tweaks before being finalized. The NFL is carefully considering feedback and potential implications before making a final decision.

00:00The NFL is implementing new rules that will change the way the game is officiated and reviewed.

02:47The hip drop tackle, a technique known for causing injuries, will be eliminated from the game.

04:56Replay assist will be used to correct fouls like roughing the passer and intentional grounding based on clear and objective evidence.

08:00The kickoff rule is being modified to encourage returns while reducing the risk of injuries.

10:33Coaches have expressed concerns about potential unintended consequences of the modified kickoff rule.

11:59The rules changes are still being discussed and may undergo further tweaks before being finalized.