The NFL will test an optical tracking system that will track line-to-gain rulings during the preseason, according to a report Tuesday from CBS Sports.
The familiar chain gang will continue to work games as a backup to the tracking system and to provide a visual reference point for the line-to-gain for players, coaches and spectators in the stadium. But the machines will make first-down rulings, at least during the preseason.
The NFL will use the preseason as a trial period, but if it goes well, the optical tracking system could be implemented as soon as the 2024 regular season, the report says.
One issue that could prevent full-scale implementation would be latency within the stadium, delaying the flow of the game.
The system was installed at MetLife Stadium and Hard Rock Stadium during the 2023 season, and clearly worked well enough that the NFL will use it league-wide for the preseason.