In a bid to reshape the NFL landscape, several teams have put forth proposals that could significantly alter league operations and game rules. The Pittsburgh Steelers, Detroit Lions, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Green Bay Packers have all submitted resolutions that will be considered at the upcoming owners' meeting in West Palm Beach, Florida, scheduled for March 30-April 2.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have submitted a resolution that would allow teams to have some direct contact with pending free agents during the three-day negotiating window preceding the start of the league year. This proposal aims to streamline the negotiation process and provide teams more flexibility. A similar proposal by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023 failed to gain traction among team owners.
The Detroit Lions have been active in proposing changes. They have suggested removing the automatic first down that accompanies penalties for illegal contact or defensive holding. Notably, the Lions led the league last season with 11 defensive holding penalties, which may have influenced their proposal. Additionally, they have proposed a significant change to playoff seeding, suggesting that regular-season records should primarily determine rankings. Under this proposal, the Lions would have received the NFC's No. 1 seed last season, with the Vikings and Packers being seeded No. 2 and No. 3, respectively.
The Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers are at odds over the "tush push" short-yardage play. The Eagles, who have successfully utilized this strategy in recent years, have put forward a proposal to ensure both teams receive guaranteed possession in overtime during regular-season games, aligning with current playoff rules. On the other hand, the Packers have proposed banning the "tush push" play altogether.
"lined up directly behind the snapper and receives the snap, immediately at the snap" – Green Bay Packers
This play has been a point of contention due to its effectiveness and perceived unfairness.
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