1-1-2, TABLE 1-7 (1), Field Diagrams #4 (NEW) – Added a new fourth field option to be used for flag football. This option would be through state association adoption.1-1-3 – Standardized that all teams must start the game with 7 players.
1-1-9, 1-3-7 NOTE (NEW), TABLE 1-7 (9) (NEW) – Added the use of instant replay during state postseason games only through state association adoption.2-18 (NEW) – Added a new definition for hurdling as it was not previously defined but yet it was listed as an illegal personal contact foul in 2025-26.
2-35-10, 3-4-3l (NEW), 4-1-1, 8-3-9 EXCEPTION (NEW), 8-4-3 EXCEPTION (NEW) – The committee approved a procedure to allow for the team trailing in score to attempt a high risk play in order to maintain possession following a score.
3-5-1 – Increased the total number of charged time-outs per half from two to three so as to give each team an extra opportunity to stop play each half with an additional time-out.
4-1-1, 8-5-5 – Following a safety, the team whose goal line was involved shall put the ball in play by a scrimmage kick from it’s own 20-yard line.
9-7-4 – Further clarified what cannot be done to the ball that is in player possession.
Rules Reminders: 1-5-1d(5)a – 4, 5 (NEW) — Committee clarifies and restricts attachments on tooth and mouth protectors, effective with the 2026 season. 1-5-2d (NEW), 1-5-3c(6) — Arm sleeve specifications developed to guide manufacturers, players and coaches effective with the 2027 season.
