NFL Tweaks Replay Challenge Rules Ahead of 2026 Season
Summary
Starting in the 2026 NFL season, head coaches can give the job of challenging plays to another staff member on their sideline. This change allows either the coach or the designated person to throw the red challenge flag before the next play starts.Key Facts
- The NFL updated replay challenge rules for the 2026 season.
- Coaches can now assign another staff member to handle replay challenges.
- The team must inform officials who the designated challenger will be before the game begins.
- This change did not require approval from NFL team owners.
- Replay challenges have been part of the NFL since 1999, though instant replay started in 1986.
- Replay technology has improved over time, including high-definition video and the Hawk-Eye SMART system introduced in 2021.
- In 2025, coaches challenged 151 plays, the highest number since 2019.
- Allowing another person to challenge may reduce emotional and impulsive replay requests.
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