clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

NFL rule proposals include instant replay tweaks, crazy new extra point option

The NFL will vote on 2015 rule proposals next week. Here are some of the more interesting proposals.

If you buy something from an SB Nation link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement.

Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

The NFL owners will meet next week in the annual March league meetings, and they will have some interesting proposals up for a vote. The Competition Committee released a list of 23 rule proposals and four bylaw proposals for owners to vote on next week. I have embedded the PDF below, but figured I would list some of the notable rule changes below.

My favorite are the ones that would move more plays under the purview of review. There are a mix of proposals. One proposal includes everything under review, another includes just personal fouls, and a third includes any penalty that results in an automatic first down. Personally I'd say include everything, but I could live with automatic first down penalties.

The most random suggestion is proposal 15, submitted by the Indianapolis Colts. That would provide a new scoring opportunity. It says that if a team successfully converts a 2-point conversion attempt, they will be allowed to then attempt an extra point from the 32 (a 50-yard attempt). That would create a potential 9-point play. I have no idea why the Colts submitted this, but it's so crazy, why not? It almost feels like a Rock 'n Jock rule.

Proposal 1: Coaches will use time outs instead of red flags. They get the timeout back if they are successful with the challenge.
Proposal 2: All fouls (I believe that means penalties) subject to review
Proposal 3/4: Personal foul penalties subject to review
Proposal 5: Any penalty which results in automatic first down subject to review
Proposal 7: Fouls against defenseless player subject to review, and if wrong, do not cost a timeout
Proposal 11: Whether time expired on play clock subject to review
Proposal 12: Put cameras on all boundary lines (side lines, end lines, goal lines) to improve replay review
Proposal 14: Move extra point attempt to 15-yard line
Proposal 15: Add bonus extra point attempt following successful 2-point try - effectively, if the team successfully converts a 2-point conversion, the team can attempt a 50-yard extra point creating a potential 9-point play.
Proposal 17: Both teams get a possession in overtime 
Proposal 22: Allow linebackers to wear Nos. 40-49
Proposal 23: Makes it illegal for offensive player with eligible number to report as ineligible and line up outside core of the formation (Ravens-Patriots game rule)

Bylaw 1: Remove 75-man August cut down date, and just have 53-man cut down date

2015 NFL Rule Proposals