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NFL Approves New Rule Changes, Including Modifications Of Overtime, Instant Replay

The NFL owners are having their annual meetings this week, and they have approved new rule changes that will affect the overtime format and expand the use of instant replay.

By Jordan Ruby
March 25, 2012; Palm Beach, FL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell speaks during an press conference at the annual NFL meetings at the Breakers Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-US PRESSWIRE
March 25, 2012; Palm Beach, FL, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell speaks during an press conference at the annual NFL meetings at the Breakers Hotel. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-US PRESSWIRE

The various NFL teams and organizations are down in Florida this week for their annual meetings. One of the topics there is any rule changes, and it appears that they've already passed through a few new rules. The first rule modifies the overtime structure, making it similar to the system the league has had in place for playoff games, according to SB Nation.

Previous complaints were that the team that won the coin toss in overtime had a major advantage because they could cruise down the field and kick a field goal with the other team never having an opportunity to possess the ball. Under the new rules, the only scenario in which both teams don't touch the ball comes in the event of a first-possession touchdown or a safety.

They also made a new rule regarding the use of instant replays, expanding their role in the game. Much like every scoring play was automatically put under review last season, turnovers will now be under the same automatic scrutiny.

The rule now applies to turnovers, too. Any turnover will automatically be subject to review and a coach will not need to use a challenge.

These are just two of the new rules that are being discussed and voted on this week. There is also discussion about the trade deadline and whether or not the instant replays will be moved into the booth.

For more on these new rules and how they will affect the Washington Redskins, please head over to Hogs Haven.