NFL Owners Meeting: Flag Football, Rule Changes, Rooney Rule

The annual NFL owners meeting, held at the Arizona Biltmore between free agency and the draft, saw commissioner Roger Goodell reaffirm the league’s commitment to the Rooney Rule. Goodell responded to Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier’s letter by emphasizing that the rule is a tool to promote diversity and that the NFL will continue to engage with stakeholders on its policies.

Goodell also announced the launch of a new flag football league aimed at expanding the sport globally and positioning it for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. In addition, the league introduced several rule changes, including allowing onside kicks at any time and establishing a contingency plan for replacement officials.