NFL shelves onside kick alternative, passes 3 rule changes

NFL owners shelved the proposed onside kick alternative that would have allowed teams to retain possession with a converted 4th-and-15 play, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

The proposal was believed to be gaining traction ahead of the vote, making its failure to pass somewhat surprising. The league could revisit the idea in the future.

Owners approved one new bylaw and three new playing rules Thursday during their virtual meeting, according to the Boston Globe's Ben Volin.

The passed bylaw increases the number of players eligible to return from injured reserve from two to three.

One of the new playing rules eliminates the game clock loophole - which allowed teams to drain the clock while taking repeated delay of game penalties - that the New England Patriots and Tennessee Titans exploited during the regular season and playoffs, respectively, last season.

The second new playing rule permanently triggers an automatic replay for all scoring plays and turnovers negated by a foul.

The last new playing rule expands defenseless player protections for kickoff and punt returners.

Additionally, owners approved an extension of the league's gaming deal with EA Sports, ensuring the "Madden" franchise will run through at least the 2025 season, a source told Albert Breer of MMQB.