NFL owners, executives, and coaches will convene this week in Arizona for the league’s annual meeting, where they will discuss a range of topics including replacement officials, potential rule changes, and advancements in technology.
Among the items on the agenda are health and safety issues, international growth, and the incorporation of flag football, with NFC coaches addressing reporters on Monday and AFC coaches on Tuesday, culminating in a session with Commissioner Roger Goodell.
Replacement Officials
The NFL competition committee has proposed a contingency plan for using replacement officials in the event of a work stoppage, similar to the 2012 season. The current collective bargaining agreement with the NFL Referees Association is set to expire on May 31.
This proposal includes allowing the replay center in New York to assist on-field officials with missed calls, such as roughing the passer or intentional grounding, and any actions that would warrant an ejection if a penalty had been enforced.
The NFL’s previous experience with replacement officials during the 2012 season led to numerous controversial calls, including the infamous ‘Fail Mary’ touchdown catch.
“The negotiations with the officials have not gone as quickly as we would have wanted,” said NFL executive Jeff Miller. “We’re looking to improve the accountability and performance of the officials, and we just haven’t gotten to where we need to go.”
Dynamic Kickoff Changes
Minor adjustments to the dynamic kickoff rule are proposed as it enters its third season, reflecting significant changes in game dynamics.
“In 2024, we had 920 returns, and we had 25,000 return yards. In 2025, we had 2,076 returns, and we had 53,869 yards,” stated Rich McKay, CEO of the Atlanta Falcons and Competition Committee Chair. “This year, we’re going to propose that we allow the 5-4-2 alignment.”
Technology and AI
The NFL is exploring new technologies, including the integration of chips in footballs and virtual measurements to assess first downs, as part of its growth strategy.
“The ability to use any modern technologies in media to advance the game on the field or with our fans is coming at a really important time for the league’s growth,” Miller remarked.
International Growth
This season, the NFL will host nine international games, including its inaugural regular-season games in France and Australia, with aspirations to eventually expand to 16 games abroad.
“It’s an incredibly important area of our business and growth and takes up a good amount of time during these meetings,” Miller added.
Concussions
The number of concussions recorded during kickoffs rose significantly from eight in 2024 to 35 in 2025, primarily due to an increase in returns following the touchback rule change.
“The goal was to have a fewer, lower injury rate on that play, and to make it seem more like a play from scrimmage,” Miller explained. “We do need to address the injuries that we saw to the returner and to the tackler this year.”