NFL approves ejection after two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties
Get breaking news and SI’s biggest stories instantly. Download the new Sports Illustrated app (iOS or Android) and personalize your experience by following your favorite teams and SI writers.
NFL owners approved the rule change to eject players after two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties on Wednesday, reports ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The league will test the new rule on a one-year trial basis for the 2016 season.
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell proposed the rule during the annual State of the NFL address in February.
Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman spoke out about the change before it was passed, calling it “foolish.”
•BURKE: NFL Mock Draft: Hypothetical trades shake up Round 1
In addition to the penalties rule change, owners approved moving touchbacks to the 25-yard line, which will also be a one-year experiment for the league. Schefter reports that bringing touchbacks to the 25-yard line is meant to discourage kickoff returns and reduce the risk of injuries.
