Indianapolis – The NFHS Board of Directors has officially approved new rule changes for high school football following recommendations from the NFHS Football Rules Committee. These changes, discussed in a January meeting, aim to enhance player communication and improve equipment safety.
One significant update allows for fixed electronic signs to relay play signals to players on the field. While any in-helmet communication remains prohibited, the new rules welcome non-audio methods to facilitate communication. Players on the field are still restricted from viewing video, which aligns with the ongoing emphasis on game integrity.
TSSAA Assistant Executive Director Richard McWhirter compared the approved electronic communication to popular video boards seen in soccer games, which display player substitution numbers. This innovative approach is expected to improve the speed and efficiency of play calling during high school football games.
In terms of equipment, the NFHS has adjusted regulations concerning mouth guards and arm sleeves. For mouth protectors, they must not include any unnecessary attachments that don’t serve a protective function. The aim is to eliminate any potential health risks for players. Starting from the 2027 season, arm sleeves manufactured to enhance contact with the football or other players must meet the specified guidelines set by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). Identifying seals will be mandatory on all compliant sleeves.
Another notable change is how loose balls going out of bounds are handled. Under the new rules, if a player fumbles the ball out of bounds between the goal lines, the ball will be placed at the spot of the fumble rather than where it crossed the sideline, adjusting a previous rule that favored the fumbling team.
These rule changes, which will affect play in the upcoming football season, reflect the NFHS’s commitment to maintaining a safe and competitive environment in high school sports. The modifications regarding arm sleeves will take effect later to provide manufacturers adequate time for adjustments.
