NFL Announces Rule Changes

From NAGAYT wire reports

The NFL has announced they will bar any tackling from future NFL games.  Instead the NFL has decided to use "two hand touch" in future games effective immediately.  The NFL cited recent studies on the effects of concussions as the reason for making the change.  NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell commented on the new rule.  "This move will allow us to protect are players and ensure they have lives after football"  No longer will we have a bunch of whiny old players complaining about their health and demanding medical care after they are done football.  We think the change solves lingering issues and will allow us to improve the product for our fans going forward."  The NFL has instructed the referees to make sure the "two hand touches" are firm but not rough.  "Rough touch is not going to be allowed.  There is no reason to knock a player down in two hand touch, any player who tackles or rough touches a player will be penalized 15 yards and be subject to suspension." League officials were split over whether or not to allow one hand touch but ultimately went to two.

Fans were split over the new changes to the NFL. 

Tom Perki, 32 said "The NFL has become so soft that Soccer is a rougher sport.  If that's not a sign of the end of the world I don't know what is." 

Jen Soccermom, 35 said "I had never allowed my kids to play football because they are made of glass.  I'm happy the NFL has finally come to their senses.  I will wait to see what Pop Warner decides to do but maybe I will let my son play football in the future.

College coaches weighed in on the issue as well.

Head Coach of Michigan, Rich Rodriguez was excited about the change and hoped the NCAA would follow suit. "I think its a great idea.  If we don't have to tackle anybody, maybe we can finally win some games. This or flag football and I think we can compete for the National Title today."

The NFL said it will review the possibility of going to a 32 game schedule starting next year.  "The players will be taking less hits so I say let's play two games a week.  18 game schedule be dammed, let's double profits."  The NFLPA released a statement saying they would be open to the possibility of an increased schedule if the money is right.