The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) Football Rules Committee has approved eight rule changes for the 2025 season, with four revisions specifically addressing player equipment. The changes were finalized at the committee’s meeting from January 12-14 in Indianapolis and later approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
Equipment Changes
One major update will allow additional electronic communication during games. While in-helmet communication remains prohibited, a revision to Rule 1-5-3c(2) permits the use of fixed electronic signs for play signals, along with non-audio communication methods. However, players positioned between the numbers are still not allowed to watch video.
Additionally, Rule 1-5-3c(3) has been updated to prohibit players from wearing any audio or video recording or transmitting devices during games. This means no microphones or cameras will be allowed on players while they are actively participating.
Further equipment changes focus on safety. A revision to Rule 1-5-1d(5) clarifies that tooth and mouth protectors cannot have attachments that serve no protective function or pose a health risk.
Starting in the 2027 season, arm sleeves designed to enhance grip must meet Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) specifications. Under the new Rule 1-5-2d, these sleeves must display a visible SFIA certification seal, similar to current regulations for football gloves.
Additional Rule Revisions
Beyond equipment, the NFHS made key changes to gameplay rules. One significant adjustment affects how fumbles that go out of bounds are handled. Previously, the ball was spotted at the yard line where the ball crossed the sideline. Now, under Rule 4-3-1, if a forward fumble goes out of bounds between the goal lines, it will be returned to the original fumble spot, preventing teams from gaining an advantage.
The committee also revised Rule 10-4-4b as part of an ongoing effort to ensure consistency in penalty enforcement, particularly regarding illegal participation fouls.
For six-player football, the committee clarified that as long as the snap receiver hands or laterals the ball to another offensive player, it may be advanced beyond the line of scrimmage.
Looking Ahead
NFHS officials emphasize that these changes reflect ongoing efforts to balance technological advancements with fairness and player safety.
"One of our responsibilities is to properly respond to advancements in equipment and technology. Through deliberate research, debate, and input from the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee and engineers, we are confident these rule changes are a positive move for our game," said Steve Roberts, chair of the NFHS Football Rules Committee and associate executive director of the Arkansas Activities Association.
The full list of rule changes will be available on the NFHS website at www.nfhs.org. The 2025 NFHS Football Rules Book will be available for purchase in May in both print and digital formats.
Participation Trends
According to the NFHS 2023-24 High School Athletics Participation Survey, 11-player football remains the most popular high school sport for boys, with over 1 million participants across nearly 14,000 schools. Additionally, thousands of athletes compete in six-, eight-, and nine-player formats, while girls' participation in football continues to grow, with over 4,000 players across all formats and nearly 43,000 girls taking part in flag football programs.
With these new rules set to take effect, the NFHS continues to adapt to the evolving landscape of high school football, ensuring a fair and safe playing environment for all student-athletes.