NFL

NFL owners vote to make drastic change to overtime

By
Justin Tasch
Published April 1, 2025, 10:07 a.m. ET

The NFL is bringing its playoff overtime rules to the regular season.

Owners on Tuesday voted unanimously to pass a rule change that will guarantee both teams at least one possession during regular-season overtime periods regardless of the outcome of the first possession, according to multiple reports.

The only difference is overtime in the regular season will be 10 minutes and not 15.

Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (l.) and Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (r.) watch the coin toss before overtime on Nov. 4, 2024.
Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (l.) and Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (r.) watch the coin toss before overtime on Nov. 4, 2024. Getty Images
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes celebrates throwing the game-winning touchdown against the Buccaneers in overtime on Nov. 4, 2024.
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes celebrates throwing the game-winning touchdown against the Buccaneers in overtime on Nov. 4, 2024. Getty Images

Previously, if the team possessing the ball first scored a touchdown in overtime during the regular season, the game would end.

The vote took place during the league’s annual meeting in Palm Beach, Fla.

The original proposal by the Eagles called for a 15-minute extra period in the regular season with an eye on reducing the likelihood of a tie, but that aspect will not be enacted.

NFL owners also voted to expand replay assist, which will allow replay officials more power to help on-field officials get calls correct.