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NFL Exploring Optical Tracking to Potentially Replace Chain Gang, per Report
The clock might be ticking on the chain gang’s time on NFL sidelines.
The league tested optical tracking for line-to-gain rulings at MetLife Stadium, Hard Rock Stadium and Super Bowl LVIII this season, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported on Thursday. If implemented, it could take over the measuring duties from the league’s iconic chain gang.
Pelissero also reported the NFL is vetting other technology to aid officiating, including high-res cameras on the goal line, sideline and end line, and a Skeletrack System to track the football, players and officials.
The technology isn’t expected to be ready for the 2024 NFL season. It would require a vote among NFL owners to be adapted into the rulebook.
End of the chain gang? The NFL tested optical tracking in two stadiums and the Super Bowl last season for line to gain rulings, league officials said today.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 29, 2024
The technology isn’t expected to be ready for rollout in 2024 and would require a vote. But the future is coming. pic.twitter.com/gSbBIpLNzH
Pelissero did not mention where the NFL plans to test this technology next, but likely it will be rolled out in other stadiums across the league before officially being voted on.
Madison Williams is a staff writer on the Breaking and Trending News team at Sports Illustrated, where she specializes in tennis but covers a wide range of sports from a national perspective. Before joining SI in 2022, Williams worked at The Sporting News. Having graduated from Augustana College, she completed a master’s in sports media at Northwestern University. She is a dog mom and an avid reader.