The NFL competition committee is exploring a significant change to officiating that would allow replay officials to throw flags for specific penalties. The proposal, discussed during league meetings in Indianapolis, would start with non-football acts that go unpenalized by on-field officials. NFL executive vice president Troy Vincent suggested this as a potential first step in expanding replay review capabilities.

Vincent cited two examples from the 2025 season where penalties were missed: Super Bowl LX saw New England Patriots receiver Stefon Diggs punched in the helmet by Seattle Seahawks cornerback Josh Jobe with no flag thrown, and in a Week 16 game, Seattle linebacker Derick Hall stepped on the leg of Los Angeles Rams guard Kevin Dotson without being penalized. Hall was later suspended for the incident. The league has previously been reluctant to allow replay officials to throw flags, fearing it would substitute their judgment for on-field officials.

Vincent acknowledged hesitation but suggested starting slowly to evaluate effectiveness, particularly in the era of legalized sports betting. The proposal represents a major shift in NFL officiating philosophy, as owners have traditionally resisted expanding replay review beyond specific plays. If implemented, this change would give replay officials authority to penalize egregious missed calls that could impact game outcomes.