The NFL owners have gathered for their annual meeting and have already made two major changes to the game.

After two playoff games last season went into overtime and the current rules for overtime play played a made role in deciding the outcome of the game.

While the overtime rules for regular season games will remain the same, the 32 owners have voted to change the way overtime games are played in the post season.

In a proposal presented by both the Indianapolis Colts and the Philadelphia Eagles, both teams will have an opportunity to possess the ball even if the team who possessed the ball first scores a touchdown.   If the second team ties the game, it then goes into sudden death overtime.

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell spoke on the change saying, “we always listen to fans.  What brought this decision was the database and the facts. When you see that, this is an issue in the postseason.”

While Competition Committee chairman Atlanta Falcons president Rich McKay noted that the vote was far beyond the required 24 votes needed to pass but did not say exactly how many votes the measure received.  He also admitted that the Kansas City – Buffalo Bills game last season was a major factor in the decision.


Also a controversial issue last season was the lack of minorities in the NFL.  A ruling named after former Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney requires an organization to interview at least one person who is a minority.   The owners have tweaked that ruling in an effort to make coaching staffs more diverse.  Beginning with the 2022 season, teams must employ at least one female or person who is considered a minority to be an offensive assistant coach.  During their one year contract the new assistant will work closely with the head coach and other offensive staff members to earn some valuable experience.  There has been a pattern over the past several years of new head coach hires coming from the offensive side of the game.  Potential candidates must have at least three years of experience in either the college or pro levels.

Chairman of the NFL’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and the son of the rules namesake, Art Rooney Jr noted “we recognize we have seen progress on some fronts, but we still have a way to go on other fronts.”

Last season 39 percent of all coaching positions in the NFL were filled by minorities.  A total of 12 women held position in the 2021 NFL season.

During the height of the pandemic teams held interviews for head coaching and general manager positions via online.  Those interviews will no longer be allowed.

The League is also looking to have some diversity among team owners.