The NFL is expected to adopt Hawk-Eye virtual measurement technology to measure first downs during the 2025 season in a shift away from the classic chains.
Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network reported that the league is expected to use this technology as the “primary measurement system” for first downs during the regular season. However, it is unclear whether it will be used during the playoffs.
Garafolo added that the chains, which have been used for nearly the entire existence of the league, will not be completely gone, and the “chain gang will remain on sidelines as a backup.”
This system will still require NFL referees to spot the ball following the end of the play, per The Washington Post. The technology will then determine whether that spot results in a first down.
The league reportedly considered using this technology during the 2024 regular season but decided against its implementation, as reported by Bleacher Report.
Although some may have concerns about the technology being utilized by the league for the first time, the expectation is that it will be a seamless transition due to testing taking place in the 2024 season.
NFL Senior Vice President of Football Operations Kimberly Fields said this will not be a significant change because the league “used this in the background last season.”
“The goal for 2025 is to continue to train our techs, who are the ones who will be utilizing the technology, finalizing all of our officiating processes and procedures around virtual measurements and testing the graphics for the broadcast and in-stadium, so fans in the stadium and fans watching on television can see what we’re doing. The chain crew will still be there as backup,” she added, per The Associated Press.
The transition into advanced technology to measure first downs comes as the NFL considers multiple other rule changes during the offseason.
The league is also considering changes to regular season overtime rules and replay assist, though it remains unclear how many of these potential changes will be enacted by the league.
Additionally, the NFL is expected to discuss the “tush push” play that has become common for multiple teams around the league. As previously reported by The Dallas Express, the Green Bay Packers recently filed a proposal to ban the play in the future.