NFL owners unanimously approve simplified catch rule

ORLANDO, Fla. -- NFL owners have approved the proposal to change the league's catch rule in a unanimous 32-0 vote.

The requirement to maintain control of the ball throughout the process of going to the ground no longer applies.

The new rule establishes three elements of a catch: control, in bounds and a "football move."

A football move, will be an act such as a third step, a reach toward the line to gain yardage or the ability to perform such an act. On-field officials will be required to judge whether it occurs.

Related Stories

What witnesses said about Trump, classified docs

• Apr 24, 4:58 PM

Secret Service prepares for Trump in contempt

• Apr 23, 4:16 PM

OJ Simpson dies at 76

• Apr 11, 6:32 PM

NFL executive vice president Troy Vincent said last week that the catch will continue to be subject to replay. "If someone asks, 'What is a catch?'" Vincent said, "we can say, 'It's control, two feet and perform a football act.' OK, now that makes sense."

The current proposal will ensure that controversial incompletions -- such as Calvin Johnson's infamous play in 2010 and Dez Bryant's in 2014 -- will instead be ruled completions in the future.