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NFL to primarily measure for 1st downs by camera-based technology, switching from chains
By Andrew Olson
Published:
The NFL has adopted a new method of measuring for 1st downs.
The league announced Tuesday that Sony’s Hawk-Eye camera-based technology will be the new primary method of measuring the line to gain. The traditional chain crew will still be on the sideline for use in a secondary capacity.
The NFL and Sony are integrating world-class on-field officiating with state-of-the-art technology to advance football excellence,” NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent said in a press release. “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. Replay technology and data-driven insights from Sony’s Hawk-Eye Innovations aid us in advancing our efforts toward the future of football.
Sony’s Hawk-Eye system, consisting of 6 8K-resolution cameras, will be used in all 30 NFL home stadiums as well as international venues to track the position of the ball. The Hawk-Eye system will be operated out of the NFL’s Art McNally GameDay Central Officiating Center in New York and is integrated into the current replay system.
The NFL estimates that the new process will take around 30 seconds, saving up to 40 seconds from a chain measurement.
Breaking: The method for measuring first downs in the NFL will switch from chain gangs to camera-based technology in 2025, the league announced.
— NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) April 1, 2025
The traditional chain crew will remain on the sidelines in a secondary capacity. pic.twitter.com/7UuXMV1Fdx
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
