NFL Introduces Camera-Based First Down Measurement for 2025 Season

The National Football League (NFL) is replacing its traditional on-field "chain gang" crew with a new innovative technology to decide ball placement and first downs during games starting from the 2025 season.

The NFL announced that it will be using Sony's Hawk-Eye technology, which was "tested extensively last season" and has proven more accurate and efficient. According to Troy Vincent, executive vice president of football operations at the NFL, "The NFL and Sony are integrating world-class on-field officiating with state-of-the-art technology to advance football excellence... Combining the art of officiating with Sony's trusted Hawk-Eye system is a healthy recipe for success in our commitment to raising the standards of accuracy, consistency and efficiency."

The new Sony Hawk-Eye technology will be deployed across all 30 NFL stadiums and international venues that also host games. The system consists of six 8K, high-resolution cameras and will be monitored by the NFL's Central Officiating Center in New York.

Although a human chain crew will still remain on the field as a secondary option to the new Sony Hawk-Eye system, the shift toward technology is in line with many other major sports leagues, which increasingly rely on computer and camera analysis to reduce the chance for human error. Rufus Hack, CEO of Hawk-Eye, Pulselive at Beyond Sports, stated, "We're incredibly excited to extend our partnership with the NFL on the important virtual measurement initiative, to continue to enhance the game for players, officials and most importantly fans."