What are the new NFL overtime rules for 2025?

The new NFL overtime rules for 2025 include a 10-minute overtime period, with each team getting two timeouts and both teams having a chance to possess the ball. The team that scores more points in overtime wins.

How do the 2025 NFL overtime rules differ from previous years?

The main difference is that both teams now get a chance to possess the ball in overtime, rather than the sudden-death format where the first team to score wins. The overtime period has also been extended from 5 minutes to 10 minutes.

When did the NFL implement the new overtime rules?

The NFL made changes to the overtime rules heading into the 2025 season, with the new format going into effect this year.

Home / Sports / NFL Overtime Rules Undergo Major Overhaul for 2025 Season

NFL Overtime Rules Undergo Major Overhaul for 2025 Season

3 Oct, 2025

•

Summary

NFL overtime rules changed for 2025 season
Both teams now get a chance to possess the ball in overtime
Overtime period extended to 10 minutes with two timeouts per team

NFL Overtime Rules Undergo Major Overhaul for 2025 Season

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the league has implemented a major overhaul to its overtime rules. The changes, which went into effect this year, aim to bring more fairness and excitement to the extra period.

The most significant update is that both teams will now have a chance to possess the ball in overtime. Previously, the sudden-death format meant the first team to score would win, often leading to frustration. Now, a coin toss will determine which team gets the ball first, and the game will continue until one team scores more points than the other.

Additionally, the overtime period has been extended from 5 minutes to 10 minutes, giving teams more time to mount a comeback. Each team will also have two timeouts to use during the extra period, adding further strategic elements.