NFL player poll 2023: If you could change one league rule, what would it be?

Exploring the myriad rules that NFL players must follow, many would advocate for changes if given the chance to voice their opinions. In a revealing anonymous poll conducted by The Athletic, 78 out of 85 players shared insights on the rules they would most like to see amended.

Scoring the highest percentage of votes at 19.2%, roughing the passer emerged as the most contentious rule. Players and fans alike grapple with the subjectivity of the call, which contributes to inconsistencies in enforcement. “Make the roughing the passer enforcement more consistent,” one player opined. Another player expressed a desire to see quarterbacks take more hits, remarking, “Roughing the passer. I think quarterbacks should get smacked.”

Another rule that attracted substantial criticism from players was the pass interference/illegal contact, which secured 15.4% of the vote. Players advocated for the reviewability of pass interference calls and proposed changes to the defensive pass interference call from being a spot foul to 15 yards.

Uniform regulations also came under fire, as players expressed a desire for greater freedom in expressing themselves through their attire. The stringent uniform restrictions, which invoke numerous fines, were deemed as excessive and overly restrictive. Players also took issue with the targeting penalty, offensive holding, and other rules, calling for greater consistency in enforcement and reviewing penalties.

The poll showcased the range of rules that NFL players wish to see altered, indicating a collective desire for greater consistency, fairness, and flexibility within the league’s regulations.