The NFL has approved a rules change that will allow its officiating department to correct clear and obvious errors by on-field referees, but only in the event of a work stoppage involving the NFL Referees Association. The league announced the measure Tuesday at the annual meeting in Phoenix, as negotiations between the NFL and the referees union remain at an impasse after talks reportedly broke off earlier this week.

Under the change, which would take effect for the 2026 season, the league’s officiating department would have the authority to fix mistakes that impact the game. The rule is a contingency plan should a strike or lockout occur.

In addition, the NFL adopted several other rules modifications. Among them, the kicking team may now declare an onside kick at any time during the game, regardless of score. Previously, teams could only attempt an onside kick while trailing.

Another change eliminates the incentive for the kicking team to intentionally kick the ball out of bounds on kickoffs from the 50-yard line. Last season, such a kick gave the receiving team possession at the 25. Now, a kickoff from the 50 that lands in the end zone and is not returned, or goes out of the end zone, will result in the receiving team starting at its own 20.

The league also modified kickoff alignment requirements for receiving team players in the setup zone, adjusting their positioning during the kickoff.

Additionally, NFL personnel can now consult with on-field officials regarding disqualifications for flagrant football acts and non-football acts, even if no flag was thrown on the field, as long as the consultation happens before the next legal snap.

Among bylaw amendments approved, players on Reserve/Physically Unable to Perform may begin a 21-day practice period after their club’s second regular-season game. The Pittsburgh Steelers’ proposal also passed, allowing clubs to have one video or phone call with no more than five prospective unrestricted free agents during the two-day negotiation period.