Should the NFL Bring Back Challenging Penalties?

The NFL currently only allows challenges on certain types of plays but does not permit challenges on penalty calls made by officials. This rule was put in place to promote the integrity of the game, as well as to prevent coaches from extensively challenging penalties and bogging down the pace of play. However, it is time for the NFL to reconsider this rule, and to allow coaches to challenge penalty calls. One of the main arguments for bringing back challenging penalties in the NFL is the overwhelming evidence in favor of technology. Today, technology is advanced enough to allow referees to instantaneously review plays on a screen, which should facilitate challenges. Additionally, more than half of NFL stadiums use 5G technology, which enhances and accelerates data communication between devices. These advancements ensure that reviewing penalties would not pose a significant delay to the game, as was once a concern. Another argument for bringing back challenging penalties is the accountability it would create for officials. Missed calls and incorrect calls by referees have been a significant topic in NFL discourse over the years. Coaches and teams often feel helpless when they disagree with a penalty call, but challenging would provide a more transparent and fair outcome. Officials should be held to the same standard of precision as players and coaches and should be accountable for their accuracy. While some argue that allowing every penalty to be challenged would slow the pace of the game, it is worth noting that coaches would only have the ability to challenge once or twice a game. With technology rapidly advancing, it is not unreasonable to assume that in the future, penalties could be reviewed more quickly, as well. It is time for the NFL to reconsider its rule regarding challenges on penalties. Technology and 5G architecture have improved enough to reduce potential delays, and accountability for calls is vital. In the upcoming season, the league must review the rules, analyze the current technologies, and plan for how coaches would use their challenges. Ultimately, the goal should always be to make football fairer and more enjoyable for all fans and participants.