This season, officials have overlooked several blatant face mask infractions, including two incidents during Thursday night games over three weeks.
NFL executive Troy Vincent highlighted the challenges faced by officials during live gameplay, where factors like fast-paced action and similar glove and face mask colors make calls difficult.
He acknowledged the frustration stemming from such errors, calling it a serious issue. Vincent suggested adding face mask penalties to the list of infractions reviewable through replay assist, allowing officials to make better-informed decisions on the field.
Incidents like the one involving Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold, who was brought down by his face mask without a penalty being called, have drawn attention to this issue.
Another example occurred on October 3, when a missed face mask penalty on a running back shifted the momentum, eventually leading to an overtime loss. Vincent emphasized the need for improved accuracy in such calls, which have repeatedly surfaced this season.
He also mentioned other potential candidates for replay assist, including tripping, illegal formations on kickoffs, and taunting, as areas requiring consideration.
Under current regulations, replay assist is limited to correcting erroneously thrown flags or aiding in enforcing existing penalties.
Expanding its use will be reviewed by the competition committee before any recommendations are presented for owner approval.
Eliminating Low Blocks
Vincent strongly advocated for banning low blocks below the knee due to the risk of serious injuries. He argued for consistency with high school and college football, where blocks are already restricted to above the knee and below the neck.
He stressed that this adjustment aligns with broader safety measures implemented to protect players’ heads and necks.
Revising Onside Kick Rules
Changes to the onside kick rules are also on the table, following the overhaul of kickoff regulations on a trial basis.
Vincent described the onside kick as a largely ceremonial play with a low recovery rate and suggested exploring alternatives, such as allowing teams to attempt a single play to retain possession.
Commanders’ Potential RFK Stadium Site
The search for a new stadium for the Washington Commanders has seen progress, particularly regarding the RFK Stadium site.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and team owner Josh Harris recently met with lawmakers to discuss transferring the land to the District of Columbia. Goodell expressed optimism, noting bipartisan support for advancing the project.
Expanding the NFL Schedule
Discussions around an 18-game season continue, although no decisions have been finalized. Goodell confirmed that any changes would require player union approval and are currently in the analysis stage.
Jaguars Name Liam Coen as Head Coach
In a surprising turn of events, Liam Coen has decided to leave his position with the Buccaneers to become the Jaguars’ head coach.
This decision followed a whirlwind two days during which Coen initially declined an interview, only to reconsider after Jacksonville parted ways with General Manager Trent Baalke.
Sources revealed that the Jaguars contacted Coen again after Baalke’s departure, leading to extensive negotiations that concluded with Coen accepting the job.
Coen inherits a team that finished last in the AFC South with a 4-13 record. The organization, which has seen four head coaches in six years, aims to find long-term stability under Coen’s leadership.
What Makes Coen a Strong Fit for Jacksonville?
Coen brings years of experience from his time with the Rams under Sean McVay and as an offensive coordinator at the University of Kentucky.
His ability to adapt offensive schemes and tailor playcalling to player strengths has been highly praised. In 2024, he guided the Buccaneers to one of their best offensive seasons, seriously improving their run game and aiding quarterback Baker Mayfield in achieving career-best stats.
The Jaguars, struggling with an inconsistent rushing attack and a heavy reliance on quarterback Trevor Lawrence, hope Coen can bring much-needed balance to their offense.
His success in Tampa Bay, where he elevated the team’s rushing and passing games, suggests he could provide a similar boost in Jacksonville.
Coen’s First Priorities
As head coach, Coen is expected to prioritize hiring an offensive line coach to address deficiencies in the team’s running game.
The Jaguars ranked near the bottom of the league in rushing metrics over the past two seasons, underscoring the need for improvement upfront.
Coen’s hiring marks a pivotal moment for Jacksonville as they aim to build a competitive foundation under his leadership.
