Report: NFL will allow both teams to possess ball in regular-season OT

NFL owners passed a rule that will allow both teams to possess the ball in overtime during the regular season, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

The extra session will remain 10 minutes in length despite the original proposal for a 15-minute overtime period. Overtime was reduced from 15 minutes in 2017.

The new regular-season format will match the playoff overtime rules. Sudden death will decide the game if the contest is still tied following both teams possessing the ball.

The team winning the OT coin toss went 12-4 in 2024, with a touchdown being scored on 37.5% of first drives, according to Charean Williams of Pro Football Talk.

NFL owners also approved to expand the league's replay-assist system, according to Schefter. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions' proposal to eliminate an automatic first down as a penalty for defensive holding and illegal contact was reportedly not approved.

Touchbacks on kickoffs will now bring the ball to the 35-yard line, according to The Athletic's Dianna Russini. An adjustment to the onside kick format will be voted on in May, Russini adds.