Game Revisions: NFL’s New Rules for 2016

Throughout its history, the National Football League (NFL) has undergone several rule revisions—some intentional, others out of necessity. These changes were made in a systematic and consensus-based process. Some changes were implemented immediately while others took much longer time under careful studies.

 

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These rule changes are made for the purpose of improving (ideally) the game, making it more exciting for viewers but without the need to reduce its integrity. Since 1974, the kickoff line has been moved three times in response to emerging circumstances and trends. Majority of the changes are also focused on players’ health and safety, creating guidelines for reduced risk of injury. In 2009, there was a rule revision to prevent defensive players from forming a wedge to block for the return man on kickoff returns to prevent injuries.

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For NFL 2016, several game rules have also been made. They are as follows:

• Permanently moving the line of scrimmage for try kicks to the defensive team’s 15-yard line, and allowing the defense to return any missed try
• Permitting the offensive and defensive play callers on the coaching staff to use the coach-to-player communication system regardless of whether they are on the field or in the coaches’’ booth
• Making all chop blocks illegal
• Expanding the horse collar rule to include when a defender grabs the jersey at the name plate or above and pulls a runner toward the ground
• Making it a foul for delay of game when a team attempts to call a timeout when it is not permitted to be done so
  Eliminating the 5-yard penalty for an eligible receiver illegally touching a forward pass after being out of bounds and re-establishing himself inbounds, and making it a loss of down
• Eliminating multiple spots of enforcement for a double foul after a change of possession
• Changing the spot of the next snap after a touchback resulting from a free kick to the 25-yard line
• Disqualifying a player who is penalized twice in one game for certain types of unsportsmanlike conduct fouls

My name is Jason Goldblatt, or Jace for short. I work as a freelance sports writer and sports blogger, with most of my posts revolving around football and the gridiron. See you on Twitter.