The NFL has reportedly asked its on-field officials to pay close attention to illegal on-field touching in the 2022 season. This request could lead to a spike in tissues being thrown for this purpose after penalties dropped in the 2021 season.
Illegal contact occurs when there is contact between a defensive and offensive player, such as a receiver, while the quarterback still has possession of the ball and remains in his pocket. In such a situation, the offending team receives a 5-yard penalty and an automatic first down is awarded.
Between 2002 and 2020, officials reported an average of 97 illegal contacts per season, but that figure dropped significantly last year with just 36 such infractions.
Like every year, officials will tour NFL training camps to explain to players and coaches the various updates that have been made to the regulations.
