As the NFL prepares to get another season underway, the League office clarifies the new rule tweaks for the season.
The experiment is over and the new kickoff rule has become a part of the rule book. Changes have also been made to the overtime rule, replay assist, and a few more technical tweaks including a new “Hawk-Eye virtual measuring system”.
One rule that has not been addressed…at least for now…is the “tush push”; it remains a part of play on the field.
Looking to increase returns on kickoffs, coverage players and blockers are closer together to eliminate explosive collisions and any touchbacks moved from the 30 to the 35, the NFL hopes to see more running plays on kicks.
Previously, teams could only declare an onside kick in the fourth quarter; the rule has been adjusted to allow a team to declare an onside prior to the fourth quarter if they are behind in the score. The coverage players will lineup one yard closer to increase the recovery rates.
In overtime play, both teams will now have the opportunity to make a score in the regular and post season…even if the first team to touch the ball scores a touchdown.
Replay assist has been expanded to include a penalty call when it is “clear and obvious that no foul has occurred.” Roughing and running into the kicker may also be reviewed. However, replay assist will not be used to call penalties that were missed.
A big change this season will be that the “chain gang” will no longer determine first downs; a new virtual measuring system will be used. However, the “chain gang” will be used when an official needs to manually spot the ball.
Teams may place two players on injured reserve but must reduce the roster to 53 players before an IR player can be reactivated. Playoff teams will be granted tow additional return IR designations.