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9h ago

NFL Debuts Hawk-Eye Virtual Measurement System at Hall of Fame Game

Hall of Fame Game viewers experienced a precise first-down call from the Hawk-Eye measurement system, which will replace the chain gang as the NFL’s primary measurement tool in 2025.

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Jul 31, 2025; Canton, Ohio, USA; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Trey Lance (5) hands off to running back Hassan Haskins (28) in the third quarter against the Detroit Lions at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
The NFL debuted its new virtual measurement system for determining first downs in the first pre-season game of the 2025 campaign
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Overview

  • The Hawk-Eye system’s first virtual measurement occurred in the second quarter after Lions RB Craig Reynolds’ 10-yard run, pausing play briefly to project the line to gain.
  • Powered by six 8K cameras, the technology is operated from the NFL’s Art McNally GameDay Central in New York and integrates with existing replay infrastructure.
  • The process completes in about 30 seconds, saving up to 40 seconds compared with the traditional chain crew measurement.
  • Chain crews remain on the sideline as a backup measure and officials continue to manually spot the ball.
  • Media and fans offered mixed feedback, with some praising the speed and precision and others lamenting the diminished role of the chain gang.