Each NFL offseason brings forth rule proposals from teams aimed at enhancing the quality of play. This year, the 2025 rule proposals have been unveiled, with one particularly notable suggestion from the Detroit Lions that could significantly alter game dynamics. The Lions proposed the elimination of the automatic first down for defensive holding and illegal contact, a move reported by Pro Football Talk.
Currently, these penalties incur a five-yard penalty along with an automatic first down, complicating the task for defensive backs. If this rule change is implemented, first downs would only be awarded if the penalty yardage advances the ball past the line to gain, which may change the way defensive strategies are executed.
Reactions to the proposal have surfaced on social media, with many fans weighing in. One fan suggested, “It should match offensive holding, 10 yd penalty and no automatic 1st down. Or switch offensive holding to 5 yd penalty and loss of down to match. Idk but the defensive holding 5yd automatic 1st down never made sense to me.” Another added, “Should be a spot foul; if it’s enough for the first great, if not, replay the down. If it occurs in the end zone or at the 1-yard line, replay the down.”
In contrast, some voiced their dissatisfaction, as one fan remarked, “That’s a stupid proposal. Those are penalties with no idea on yards taken away from the offense.” It remains to be seen whether this proposal will garner enough support across the league to move forward.
