NFL to Introduce Line-to-Gain Technology While Keeping Human Ball Spotting

The league plans to use Sony's Hawk-Eye system for faster first-down measurements, but forward progress calls will remain reliant on human judgment.

The NFL will begin using Sony's Hawk-Eye tracking system next season to measure first downs more efficiently, reducing measurement time from 75 seconds to 35 seconds.
Human officials will continue to spot the football, as current technology cannot accurately determine forward progress, a key element in officiating.
The Hawk-Eye system will replace the traditional chain gang for first-down measurements but will remain a backup option if needed.
Zebra microchips in footballs and player pads, used since 2017 for Next Gen Stats, are not precise enough for officiating purposes like spotting tackles or determining possession.
Discussions are ongoing within the NFL Competition Committee about potentially expanding the use of boundary cameras and other technologies for coaches' challenges and replay reviews.