Andy Reid speaking to NFL referees
NFL referees (Photo via Bill Streicher/Imagn Images)

A group of NFL referees could be taking a backseat to technology next season, with the league presumably set to do away with the Chain Gang, somewhat.

According to Mark Maske of The Washington Post, the NFL could implement its first-down technology in 2025. After studying the system over the last few seasons, the league is set to present its findings to the owners next month.

“The NFL, after testing an electronic system for measuring first downs in recent years, will present its findings on the issue to the owners at the annual league meeting beginning late next month. It remains possible the system could be utilized during the 2025 regular season,” Maske reported this week.

“There was always a decision of test it, bring back the results and then you can begin talking about regular season [use],” NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent was quoted as saying. “And that has been consistent with the membership. So there’s never been [opposition] to it.”

The Chain Gang would remain on as a backup option if the change goes through.

 

NFL Referees Appeared To Get Key Call Wrong During A Big Playoff Game Last Season

NFL Replaces The Chain Gang With Technology For First Down Measurements
NFL Chain Gang (Photo By David Richard/Imagn Images)

The development comes on the back of widespread criticism of the league’s officiating. As far as first-down controversy goes, the most recent occurred in the AFC Championship Game between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs, when it turned the tide for the Chiefs after refs spotted the ball short despite the Bills appearing to get a first down on consecutive plays.

The Chiefs got into the end zone shortly after regaining possession and went on to win the game, advancing to their third consecutive Super Bowl.

While the NFL is keen on getting first-down measurements right, the Chain Gang isn’t the problem, as they’ve always delivered accurate numbers based on what’s put in front of them. It’s more than can be said for the officials spotting the ball on the field.

The chains won’t give a first down if the ball isn’t spotted where it’s supposed to be. So, is the league changing the wrong thing here?