NFL will test new technology for measuring line to gain in some preseason games

The NFL is reportedly moving closer to using new technology to measure line to gain for first downs.

NFL executive Gary Brantley told The Associated Press the league will test Sony’s Hawk-Eye technology during some preseason games in a move that could lead to the eventual replacement of the chain gang as the primary measure.

The NFL would still use two bright orange sticks to measure for first downs, but it would be in a backup capacity.

And while the league is moving closer to considering the change, it most likely wouldn’t be ready for full implementation until next season, according to the Associated Press.

“We’re in the installation phase for all of our stadiums, really getting them calibrated and up to date,” said Brantley, the NFL’s senior vice president and chief information officer.

“We’re just really getting to a place where this system is as accurate as possible and really calibrating across our multiple stadiums. … We have multiple stadiums with multiple dimensions inside of those stadiums with different age. So we’re really just going through the installation of putting in the infrastructure and making sure these cameras are installed.”

Sony was named the NFL’s official technology partner on Wednesday. It is also developing a new coach’s sideline headset that will debut in 2025.

Sony is also working with the NFL to enhance sideline photography, broadcast cameras and production to meet the league’s “incredibly high standards.”

Hawk-Eye would add cameras to stadiums to track players, officials and the ball, notifying officials instantly if a first down was gained after the ball is spotted by hand.

“We’re reducing a significant amount of time, 40 seconds for each time of use that basically is making the game that much more impactful,” said Neal Manowitz, Sony president and chief operations officer.

“And then also the system is accurate down to less than half an inch, which is incredibly, incredibly accurate. Hopefully the fans appreciate the objective view, or at least half the fans each play will be appreciating it.”

The NFL did not say which games would be testing the Hawk-Eye system.

The preseason begins with the NFL’s annual Hall of Fame game where the Bears will take on the Texans on Thursday. The rest of the league begins preseason next week.