NFL Turns to New Tech for First Downs—Are Overtime Changes Next?

INDIANAPOLIS — The NFL is moving forward with major rules and operational changes that could alleviate several controversial issues from recent years.

Starting with the 2025 season, the league plans to use Hawk-Eye technology to virtually determine whether a team has gained a first down after the referee manually spots the ball, NFL EVP of football operations Troy Vincent said Wednesday at the NFL combine. The traditional “chain gang” will remain on the sidelines as a backup if needed.

Spotting of the football became a hot topic during the playoffs after Bills quarterback Josh Allen fell inches short of converting a crucial fourth down against the Chiefs in the AFC championship game. The hope is that the new first-down technology will lead to quicker and more efficient calls, although it wouldn’t be able to change a close spot like Allen’s.

More technology could also be in play by expanding the use of replay assist for penalties called on the field, Vincent said. Calls around roughing the passer, unnecessary roughness on a defenseless player, and facemasks are under consideration. But replay assist will not allow officials to call a penalty after a play has ended.

Game Time

The NFL is also exploring another change to its overtime rules for the regular season, Vincent said. 

Currently, the first team to possess the ball can win if it scores a touchdown. But the playoff overtime rules give both teams a chance to score no matter what, which could be used in the regular season. Team owners would need to ratify any change at one of their league meetings this offseason.

Additionally, overtime could be lengthened from 10 to 15 minutes.