The Football Rules Committee for the National Federation of State High School Associations, also known as the “NFHS,” has introduced several new regulations to improve player safety, maintain fairness, and incorporate technological advancements in high school football.
These updates, approved by the NFHS Board of Directors following their January 12-14 meeting in Indianapolis, Ind., include changes to player equipment, electronic communication, and game procedures.
NFHS Implements Key Safety Rules in High School Football
One of the biggest rule updates concerns the use of electronic communication during games. While in-helmet communication remains prohibited, a revision to Rule 1-5-3c(2) now allows fixed electronic signs and non-audio methods to relay play signals. However, players positioned between the numbers can still not view video during the game.
This is a notable difference between the high school level and college and NFL football levels, where in-helmet communication has become the norm.
Changes have also been made regarding tooth and mouth protectors. The revised Rule 1-5-1d(5) states that mouthguards must solely serve the purpose of protecting the teeth and mouth. Any attachments that do not contribute to this function or pose a safety risk are now banned.
Additionally, new restrictions have been placed on wearable technology. Under Rule 1-5-3c(3), any player participating in a game is now prohibited from using audio or video recording devices. This means that microphones, cameras, or any other equipment capable of transmitting sound or visuals cannot be worn during play.
Arm sleeve regulations have also been updated. Beginning in the 2027 season, Rule 1-5-2d will mandate that all arm sleeves meet the specifications of the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA).
To ensure compliance, arm sleeves must display a permanent, clearly visible SFIA seal. This modification aligns with existing NFHS football gloves standards, ensuring consistency in equipment regulations.
Adjustments To Game Play: Fumbles, Penalties, and Six-Man Football
A major change in match rules involves how forward fumbles that go out of bounds are handled. Previously, the ball was placed at the point where its foremost part crossed the sideline.
A change to Rule 4-3-1 now requires that the ball be returned to the spot of the fumble. This change prevents teams from gaining an unfair advantage by fumbling forward.
Another modification pertains to penalty enforcement. Rule 10-4-4b has been revised to eliminate a provision related to illegal participation fouls. This change is part of the committee’s broader effort to streamline and standardize penalty enforcement across all game situations.
Six-man football rules have also been refined. The new revision clarifies that the ball can be advanced beyond the line of scrimmage as long as possession is transferred from the snap receiver to another offensive player.
This update ensures a clear understanding of legal ball movement in six-player football, which is played around the country, especially by smaller schools with rosters that are not as big.
High School Football Participation Continues Growing
High school football continues to see widespread participation across the United States. According to the 2023-24 NFHS High School Athletics Participation Survey, 11-player football remains boys’ most popular high school sport, with more than one million players across 13,788 schools.
Additionally, 38,948 boys compete in alternative formats, including six-, eight-, and nine-player football. The sport is also growing among girls, with 4,295 participants in all formats of tackle football.
Girls’ flag football is also experiencing significant growth, with 42,955 players taking part in the 2023-24 season. As participation increases, the NFHS continues to adapt its rules to ensure the game remains safe, fair, and aligned with modern advancements in equipment and technology.
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Steve Roberts, chair of the NFHS Football Rules Committee and associate executive director of the Arkansas Activities Association, explained in a statement that the committee is always looking to respond to advancement in football, especially in alternative formats.
“One of our responsibilities is to properly respond to advancements in equipment and technology. Through deliberate research, debate, and input from the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) and engineers, we are confident the rule changes regarding equipment are a positive move for our game.”
The latest rule changes reflect the NFHS’s commitment to evolving with the sport while preserving its core principles. These updates will play a crucial role in maintaining a competitive yet safe environment for high school football players nationwide.
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