All the NFL rule changes, including more replay assistance in case of replacement refs

The New York Times • March 31, 2026 • sports

Key Points:

NFL owners approved a one-year rule change allowing the league’s officiating department to assist on-field officials remotely during a potential work stoppage with the NFL Referees Association, preparing for possible replacement officials in 2026.
The rule would enable officials in New York’s command center to intervene on calls with clear video evidence, including fouls not called on the field and flagrant acts, but only if no new collective bargaining agreement is reached by May 31.
Additional approved rule changes include allowing either team to attempt onside kicks at any point in the game, eliminating incentives to kick the ball out of bounds on kickoffs, and permitting league personnel to consult on flagrant and non-football acts that could lead to disqualification.
Negotiations between the NFL and the referees’ union have stalled, with the league preparing to hire replacement officials as early as May, while key disputes remain over postseason assignments, training requirements, and salary increases.
Owners also approved changes to league bylaws affecting roster cut deadlines for international games, free agent tampering communications, and practice periods for players on the reserve/physically unable to perform list.

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