NFL Eyes Major Rule Change After Facemask Controversy

The NFL is exploring the possibility of expanding the range of plays that can undergo video review, particularly facemask penalties, after controversial calls during the 2024 season.

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Troy Vincent, the NFL's EVP of Football Operations, revealed that the competition committee will discuss allowing replay assist for certain penalties like facemasks.

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Despite the NFL's use of instant replay since 1986 and its current system since 1999, referees have struggled with accurate facemask calls this season.

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The league has demonstrated a willingness to adapt its rules, as seen in the recent adjustment to kickoffs and replay assist for roughing-the-passer and intentional grounding penalties.

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Unlike other sports that implement video replay systems like VAR, the NFL's use of instant replay is more established but still faces challenges in specific areas.

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College football adopted instant replay guidelines in 2006, while the NFL's system has been in place for decades, covering a variety of reviewable instances.

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The NFL previously allowed coaches and officials to review pass interference in 2019, but the process was discontinued within a year due to misuse.

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New rule changes in the NFL require approval from 75 percent of team owners, making the process reliant on a consensus among league stakeholders.

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The NFL's competition committee, comprising team owners, coaches, and executives, is tasked with evaluating the sport's competitive aspects and recommending potential rule changes.

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