The National Football League (NFL) has approved multiple new playing rules, bylaws, and resolutions in its 2023 Annual Meeting. The proposed changes were discussed during the owners meetings held from March 26 to 30 in Phoenix, Arizona. The meeting covered various topics related to the NFL’s operations, including new playing rules, financial reports, and other league matters.
NFL Approves New Playing Rules for the 2023 Season
During the meeting, owners approved 17 new playing rules that will come into effect in the 2023 NFL season. Some of the approved changes include allowing players to wear the number zero on their jerseys, adjusting the play clock after instant replay reversals, and automatic reviews of close plays on failed fourth-down attempts.
One of the most notable rule changes is the allowability of players wearing numbers from zero to 99 depending on their positions. Previously, certain positions were assigned specific ranges of numbers they could choose from. However, with this new rule change passed by owners and proposed by the Philadelphia Eagles, players are now allowed to wear jerseys labeled “099” which would imply no position limit.
No. 0 Jersey Now Available for Players
With players now allowed to wear jersey numbers from zero to 99, it raises questions about who will claim this newly available number- No.0. Wide receivers Calvin Ridley of Jacksonville Jaguars and Parris Campbell of the New York Giants have already announced their intentions to wear it for their respective teams.
In Philadelphia Eagles’ case where all eligible non-linemen can vie for jersey about this number, several players are believed to be viable candidates. This includes Terrell Edmunds and Marcus Mariota, who wore #8 for his previous teams and may switch as it has been taken by Arryn Siposs at Eagles while #1 Jalen Hurts’ jersey number is also reserved. Dalton Keene, Greedy Williams, Kennedy Brooks, and Tristin McCollum are other players with unassigned numbers and are eligible to don No.0.
New Bylaws and Resolutions Approved
Owners also approved three new bylaws and resolutions during the meeting. The first resolution establishes one preseason roster reduction date, while the second requires uniform deadlines for roster transactions in both regular season and postseason games. The third bylaw changes the claiming period for waived players during the last week of the regular season and awards contracts based on strength of victory as the second tiebreaker.
Some Proposed Changes Were Not Approved
Several proposed changes were not approved during the 2023 Annual Meeting. One such proposal was to make roughing the passer a review able call, while another suggested allowing teams to go for a fourth-and-20 instead of an onside kick.
In conclusion, the 2023 NFL Annual Meeting was an essential event that resulted in some significant changes for both players and fans. With new playing rules, bylaws, and resolutions now in place, we can expect a more competitive and entertaining football season come 2023.
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