NFL to Introduce Hawk-Eye Technology for First-Down Measurements in 2025

The league will adopt an electronic system to supplement traditional chain measurements, aiming for faster and more accurate calls.

The NFL plans to implement Hawk-Eye technology as the primary method for determining first downs during the 2025 regular season, with the chain gang serving as a backup.
The system was tested during the 2024 preseason and parts of the regular season, averaging 30 seconds per decision compared to 75 seconds for manual chain measurements.
Hawk-Eye technology, already used in tennis and other sports, will rely on additional cameras in stadiums to provide more accurate replay angles for forward progress rulings.
Officials will still spot the ball manually, and the electronic system will confirm whether the ball crosses the line to gain, leaving room for some human error.
The decision follows controversy from the 2025 AFC Championship Game, where a disputed fourth-down call involving Josh Allen highlighted the need for more precise measurement tools.