NFL Competition Committee Releases Proposed Rule Changes

The NFL today released the proposed rule changes from the NFL Competition Committee to be voted on by owners.

Notably absent from the proposals was the reported ban on the “tush push” quarterback sneak that was effectively used by the Eagles on third and fourth downs with short yardage. The reports were made by FOX Sports Rules Analyst Dean Blandino that the practice was under discussion.

The committee did propose several rule changes, two of which were directly related to player safety. The first change proposed on this topic changed the definition of a launch to include springing forward with one foot leaving the ground. The previous rule required both feet to leave the ground. Players must still lead with the helmet for the launch to draw a flag.

The second proposed rule change related to safety makes tripping a personal foul.

The other proposals involved consistent administration of the rules. Handing the ball forward beyond the line of scrimmage, after a change in possession, or to an ineligible receiver now draw flags and five yard penalties from the spot of the foul. Illegally kicking the ball beyond the line of scrimmage now draws a five yard penalty and a loss of down, changed from a 10 yard penalty.

The other notable change for consistent rules administration moves the touchback spot for punts to the 25 yard line, like kickoffs.

Additionally, the offense cannot extend the half by an untuned down for a foul at the end of a second quarter.

The proposals will be voted on by owners at the spring league meeting this spring.