In a move that could simplify game day for NFL teams, seven franchises have put forth a proposal aimed at changing the way kicking footballs are prepared. On Wednesday, the league unveiled a set of proposed rule changes for the upcoming 2025 season, and among them, teams are looking to make significant adjustments to their pre-game routines.
The Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans, Las Vegas Raiders, Minnesota Vikings, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Commanders are all backing a plan that would allow teams to prep kicking footballs—often referred to as K-balls—before game day. Currently, teams are allotted just 60 minutes to get these game-ready footballs in order before kickoff, a process that has become increasingly burdensome, particularly for equipment staffs during that frenetic pregame period. This proposal aims to alleviate that stress by changing the prepping guidelines, making the process smoother and more efficient.
The proposal articulates that advancements in technology and equipment mean that all NFL game footballs, including the K-balls, adhere to the strict criteria outlined in the league’s Official Playing Rules. The NFL has consistently employed the Haltec inflation equipment across all games, which provides a standardized method to ensure that every football meets the required specifications.
Under the new guidelines, officials would visually inspect these K-balls and utilize the Haltec device to measure their PSI levels, similar to the current checks in place for other game balls. If this proposal gains traction and is approved, teams would need to submit three K-balls and 24 quarterback balls to officials a solid two hours and 15 minutes before kickoff. In a further stipulation, should a team lose all of its pre-approved K-balls during the game, it would be required to utilize one from the opposing team’s supply.
While this change may seem technical, it underscores the NFL’s ongoing efforts to streamline operations and enhance the game experience. However, much of the spotlight today remains on other proposed rule changes, particularly the potential ban on the increasingly popular “Tush Push.” This rugby-style quarterback sneak has divided opinions, especially after the Eagles made it a cornerstone of their Super Bowl run.
In addition to the kicking football proposal, the Detroit Lions have put forth an interesting concept for a new playoff structure that would allow wild-card teams to be seeded higher than division winners. This idea stems from their recent experience, where they fell to the No. 6-seeded Washington Commanders despite having a superior record compared to the champions of the NFC West and South.
As these proposals are set to be discussed, it’s clear that the league is considering not just the play on the field, but also the behind-the-scenes processes that can impact the flow and fairness of the game. Fans will undoubtedly be watching closely as votes are tallied and the future shaping of the NFL unfolds.
