The chain gang is getting benched — and not everyone is thrilled.
The NFL debuted model new know-how Thursday night time at the Hall of Fame recreation between the Chargers and Lions in Canton, Ohio. Instead of relying only on chains, the NFL will use new Hawkeye know-how to measure the ball.
The know-how works by utilizing six 8K cameras to decide where the ball is on the discipline.
Introducing the new digital measurement system for first downs, which permits the NFL to precisely and effectively measure the distance between the noticed ball and the line to acquire. pic.twitter.com/QvlsSmWnSo
— NFL (@NFL) August 1, 2025
“Sony’s Hawk-Eye virtual measurement technology will serve as an efficient alternative to the process of walking chains onto the field and manually measuring whether 10 yards have been met after the official has spotted the ball,” The NFL said. “The chain crew will remain on the field in a secondary capacity.”
The NFL said the chain gang would still be at video games as a second line of protection, but referee Shawn Smith informed reporters that was not the case for Thursday night time’s recreation.
The new manner the Sony Hawk-eye will resolve if a ball has crossed the first down marker. @NFL/X
This new system only impacts the effectivity of recognizing a first down, not the accuracy. The change does not tackle the situation of referees incorrectly recognizing the ball.
Many followers are skeptical of the know-how.
The NFL chain gang could be no more. Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
One fan on X said, “This is going to decide so many games. This is awful.”
Another fan would miss the nostalgia of the chain gang, saying, “I’m gonna miss the chains tbh.”
This fan used the alternative to renew followers’ anger over perceived biased therapy for Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes: “After Review, Mahomes was past the marker. First down”
The Chargers have a good time against the Lions during Hall of Fame Game on July 31, 2025. AP
The NFL could still reverse course after testing out the know-how in the preseason and gauging fan response, but for now, the chain gang has been moved to the bench.
The Chargers dominated the Lions in the recreation, profitable 34-7 behind a robust efficiency from former No. 3 decide Trey Lance.
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