Revised Equipment Rules for 2025 High School Football Season
February 3, 2025
New Safety and Technology Standards Implemented for 2025 High School Football Season
INDIANAPOLIS, IN (February 3, 2025) — The NFHS Football Rules Committee introduced key revisions to player equipment during its meeting in Indianapolis from January 12-14. Out of the eight proposed changes, four directly impact player gear, all of which were approved by the NFHS Board of Directors.
Comprising one member from each state association that follows NFHS rules, along with representatives from the NFHS Coaches Association and NFHS Officials Association, the committee works to ensure high school football stays aligned with evolving safety and technology standards.
Key Changes in Player Equipment
One of the most notable changes for the upcoming season is the allowance for some electronic communication during games. However, in-helmet communication remains prohibited. The update to Rule 1-5-3c(2) permits the use of fixed electronic signs displaying play signals and non-audio methods of communication. Players, however, are still not allowed to view video footage during the game.
Furthering restrictions on player equipment, Rule 1-5-3c(3) now explicitly bans any audio (microphone) or video (camera) device worn by players. These devices, which could record or transmit audio or video, are strictly prohibited during gameplay.
File Photo: Smyrna Eagles wide receiver Phoenix Henriquez (7) collide with Jace Troxler (21) dislodging his mouthpiece during a regular season game between the Smyrna Eagles and Sussex Central Friday, Nov. 8, 2024; at Charles V. Williams Stadium on the campus of Smyrna High School in Smyrna, DE. Mandatory Credit: Saquan Stimpson
Updated Requirements for Tooth and Mouth Protectors
The committee has also tightened regulations on tooth and mouth protectors. As per Rule 1-5-1d(5), tooth and mouth protectors must be free of any unnecessary attachments or components that do not serve a protective function. Additionally, any attachment that could pose a health or safety risk is forbidden.
New Specifications for Arm Sleeves
Effective for the 2027 season, Rule 1-5-2d introduces new guidelines for arm sleeves. These must meet the performance standards set by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) at the time of manufacture. The arm sleeves must feature a visible, legible SFIA seal on the exterior to confirm they meet the established specifications. This change brings arm sleeves in line with current NFHS standards for football gloves.
Steve Roberts, chair of the NFHS Football Rules Committee, emphasized the committee’s commitment to staying responsive to advances in equipment and technology, ensuring these updates benefit player safety and game integrity.
Additional Rule Changes
The committee also approved a revision to Rule 4-3-1 concerning the spot of a loose ball going out of bounds. Previously, the ball was placed at the point it crossed the sideline. Now, in cases of a forward fumble, the ball will be returned to the location where the fumble occurred.
A modification to Rule 10-4-4b removes certain penalty enforcement inconsistencies, particularly around illegal participation fouls, promoting greater clarity and consistency in the game.
For the 6-player football format, a change was made to clarify that a ball can be advanced beyond the line of scrimmage once possession changes hands.
A full list of the approved rule changes is available on the NFHS website at www.nfhs.org, under the “Activities & Sports” section.
Participation Numbers
According to the 2023-24 NFHS High School Athletics Participation Survey, 11-player football remains the most popular high school sport for boys, with over 1 million participants in nearly 14,000 schools across the U.S. Additionally, 6-, 8-, and 9-player football saw nearly 39,000 participants, with over 4,000 girls playing all versions of the sport. Girls flag football also continues to grow, with nearly 43,000 participants in the 2023-24 school year.
About the NFHS
The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), based in Indianapolis, Indiana, is the governing body for high school sports and performing arts activities. Since 1920, the NFHS has led efforts to improve interscholastic sports, providing rules and standards for competitions in 17 sports for both boys and girls. With 50 state associations and over 19,800 high schools under its purview, the NFHS supports more than 12 million student participants in athletic and activity programs. For more information, visit www.nfhs.org.