Posted on Feb 25

NFL competition committee reviews replay decisions, focusing on issues in 1 p.m. games

Posted Feb 25, 2026

The NFL is reassessing its replay review system after identifying several critical decisions from the 2025 season that warrant reconsideration.

Why it matters: This move could significantly impact how games are officiated, particularly during the 1 p.m. E.T. time slot, which has been linked to a higher frequency of contentious calls. The league's focus on refining the replay process reflects an ongoing commitment to enhancing game integrity and accuracy in officiating.

In the past season, out of 171 replay review or assist decisions, only five were flagged for reassessment.
Notably, four of these five problematic calls occurred during games played at 1 p.m., where a dedicated replay assistant monitors the action.

What’s new: The NFL's competition committee is actively discussing potential improvements to the replay system, driven by insights from head coaches like Sean Payton and Mike Vrabel.

Payton expressed a desire for changes, stating his frustration with errors occurring during early games, while Vrabel highlighted staffing challenges that may affect decision-making efficiency.

By the numbers: The data shows a pattern that could influence future policy decisions regarding officiating.

Each 1 p.m. game features a replay assistant utilizing an Xbox controller to access various camera angles, yet the limitations in camera coverage were echoed by 49ers GM John Lynch, who emphasized the need for more comprehensive viewing options.

Yes, but: While the NFL seeks to enhance replay accuracy, the implementation of changes must be carefully considered to avoid disruption.

As noted by senior VP of officiating Troy Vincent, achieving near-perfect accuracy in replay decisions remains a goal. However, systemic shifts require thorough evaluation and consensus among team leaders and officials.

Our thought bubble: The upcoming expiration of the collective bargaining agreement for NFL officials in May could further complicate restructuring efforts.

With negotiations looming, the resolution of staffing and technology concerns might take on heightened importance, especially if teams are advocating for improved systems in real-time officiating.

The bottom line: As the league prepares for future seasons, the emphasis on refining the replay review process reflects broader trends in professional sports toward increased accountability and transparency in officiating.

Continuous dialogue among key figures like Payton, Vrabel, and Lynch indicates a proactive approach toward addressing existing challenges, aiming to elevate the overall quality of the game for players and fans alike.

NFL competition committee reviews replay decisions, focusing on issues in 1 p.m. games

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 25, 2026

The NFL is reassessing its replay review system after identifying several critical decisions from the 2025 season that warrant reconsideration.

In the past season, out of 171 replay review or assist decisions, only five were flagged for reassessment.

Notably, four of these five problematic calls occurred during games played at 1 p.m., where a dedicated replay assistant monitors the action.

What’s new: The NFL's competition committee is actively discussing potential improvements to the replay system, driven by insights from head coaches like Sean Payton and Mike Vrabel.

Payton expressed a desire for changes, stating his frustration with errors occurring during early games, while Vrabel highlighted staffing challenges that may affect decision-making efficiency.

By the numbers: The data shows a pattern that could influence future policy decisions regarding officiating.

Each 1 p.m. game features a replay assistant utilizing an Xbox controller to access various camera angles, yet the limitations in camera coverage were echoed by 49ers GM John Lynch, who emphasized the need for more comprehensive viewing options.

Yes, but: While the NFL seeks to enhance replay accuracy, the implementation of changes must be carefully considered to avoid disruption.

As noted by senior VP of officiating Troy Vincent, achieving near-perfect accuracy in replay decisions remains a goal. However, systemic shifts require thorough evaluation and consensus among team leaders and officials.

Our thought bubble: The upcoming expiration of the collective bargaining agreement for NFL officials in May could further complicate restructuring efforts.

With negotiations looming, the resolution of staffing and technology concerns might take on heightened importance, especially if teams are advocating for improved systems in real-time officiating.

Continuous dialogue among key figures like Payton, Vrabel, and Lynch indicates a proactive approach toward addressing existing challenges, aiming to elevate the overall quality of the game for players and fans alike.