The NFL is preparing for a MAJOR technological change next season… but it must pass preseason testing before getting the green light

The NFL plans to test optical tracking technology for gain line decisions this preseason.

According to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports, the league is preparing to test the advanced method in the preseason with a chance to implement it full-time during the regular season.

If the trial goes well, it could mean a demotion for the chain gang. However, Jones added that channel officials would remain on the ground as backup if the technology encountered difficulties.

Jones reported that the NFL competition committee quietly approved optical tracking in March. However, as previously stated, full implementation will depend on how well or poorly the testing goes.

Despite its dominance in the sports market, the NFL is significantly outdated compared to other leagues when it comes to the use of technological advancements.

NFL to test optical tracking technology this preseason in hopes of full implementation

Fans fear that full implementation of the rule could result in a demotion for the chain gang.

The NFL reportedly plans to keep channel managers on the field as backup for the technology.

Incorrect gain line decisions have long been responsible for changing games throughout NFL history. Therefore, optical tracking could prove to be a revolutionary advancement in arbitrage if all goes according to plan.

Although optical tracking technology is new to the NFL, several sports leagues have adopted it in previous years. Sports like football and tennis were among the first to benefit from this innovation.

In 2012, goal-line technology was first implemented in football at the FIFA Club World Cup in Japan. In 2014, GLT became widely used in domestic and international competitions around the world following its implementation by the Premier League during the 2013–14 season.

Two years later, the International Football Association Board approved the use of the video assistant referee (VAR). VAR is essentially an additional official who can view the game from multiple camera angles, providing an extra pair of eyes for the referees on the field.

In March 2006, the ATP introduced the Hawk-eye system. Developed by Dr. Paul Hawkins, the technology was a game changer in tennis, as it allowed officials to automatically detect where the ball landed on the court during matches.