Minneapolis is getting ready for a big week as NFL owners gather to vote on a significant change to the postseason playoff seeding. The spotlight is on the Detroit Lions’ proposal, officially listed as Bylaw Proposal No. 4. This proposed change aims to alter how teams qualify for and are ranked in the playoffs.
Under the current system, division winners are guaranteed the top seeds in each conference, but the Lions want to switch that up. Their proposal would allow the four division champions and three wild card teams from each conference to secure playoff spots. The key change here is that all seven playoff teams would be ranked based on their records alone, doing away with the automatic top seeds for division winners. If two teams have the same record, the division champion status would serve as the tiebreaker, regardless of head-to-head matchups.
Back in March, Commissioner Roger Goodell sought feedback on this proposal but only a few teams showed readiness for support. Still, there was some positive feedback that led to the decision to push for an official vote in May. The reasoning behind the Lions’ proposal includes promoting competitive equity, enhancing excitement towards the end of the season, and rewarding teams that perform well throughout the regular season.
The NFL has expressed growing concerns lately about teams resting their star players in the final weeks of the season, particularly when their playoff seeding is already secure. The analytics team presented some striking evidence at the March meetings, emphasizing how a new open seeding system could keep late-season games more competitive and relevant. For instance, teams like the Houston Texans, Los Angeles Rams, and Philadelphia Eagles all had their playoff seeds locked up going into Week 18 last year, which led to them resting players and ultimately losing those games.
In addition to the Detroit proposal, another significant rules change regarding the use of the Eagles’ push play has also made its way onto the agenda. Coaches are looking for clarity on the legality of pushing offensive players right after the snap to gain yardage. This proposal echoes one previously made by the Green Bay Packers, reflecting ongoing discussions about the tactic.
While the Lions’ playoff seeding change is generating buzz, owners will also discuss adjustments to kickoff rules and the possibility of allowing NFL players to participate in flag football at the upcoming 2028 Olympics. As the season approaches and discussions continue, the outcome of these proposals could usher in a new era of competition on the gridiron.
