Overview

• Beginning in 2026, no single point will be awarded for field goals, punts or kickoffs that pass through the end zone without a return, with a rouge only counted if a returner is downed or takes a knee in the end zone.
• A 35-second automatic play clock will start as soon as a play is whistled dead next season, and teams will use benches on opposite sidelines to speed substitutions.
• In 2027, the field will shrink from 110 to 100 yards, end zones will be reduced from 20 to 15 yards, and goalposts will shift to the back of the end zone while the 65-yard width remains.
• The CFL’s Lead Governors unanimously approved the package, and the Rules Committee with coaches, officials and the CFLPA will finalize technical details in the off-season.
• Public response is mixed, with some fans welcoming the changes and others arguing the moves make the CFL feel more American, as the league projects more end zone completions and roughly 60 additional touchdowns per season.