Explore the official rules of the game with this searchable version of the official 2021 NFL Rulebook.
2021 NFL Rulebook
Through the lens of the best in the game — current players, NFL Legends and coaches — the initiative highlights proper technique, shares best practices and showcases the NFL Way to Play.
NFL Way to PlayFeatured Content
NFL Way to Play
Knees Bent. Pads Down. Head Up and Out.
Creating the NFL Schedule
It takes thousands of computers and six NFL executives to create the NFL’s 272-game masterpiece.
2022-23 Important NFL Dates
History of the Official
“One thing hasn’t changed: the pressure. It will always be there.”
Evolution of the NFL Player
Creating an NFL player: from “everyman” to “superman.”
The NFL’s International Impact
Gameday
Take a look behind the scenes at the NFL’s meticulous preparation, each season and each week, for 332 preseason, regular season and playoff games, and see how the league is anticipating the future while preserving the history, integrity and equity of America’s favorite sport.
Learn the Game
Learn the Game gives you everything you need to understand the basics of NFL football. Learn fundamental terms in the glossary, understand base formations and get a quick guide to NFL TV graphics.
The Story
Officiating
NFL officials are the best of the best — for every down and every snap, this seven-person unit makes precision calls and split-second decisions at full speed. Look behind the scenes at how the league scouts, develops and evaluates the officials who work at football’s highest level.
Journey to the NFL
The NFL is only as good as its players. That’s why the league works with individuals at every stage of their involvement with the game to develop and support not only great players, but also great people. Learn about the history of NFL players and what it takes to make it in the league.
The Rules
The NFL’s rules have continued to evolve since football’s earliest days — always changing to protect the players, the game’s integrity, and to make the game fairer and more entertaining. See how today’s rules have come about through testing, analysis and careful deliberation, and how the game has evolved into the sport beloved by millions today.
Inside Football Ops
Step behind the scenes of NFL Football Operations, the department that fosters a culture of clarity, consistency and credibility and ensures that the game’s rules — and the league’s officiating — are consistent to ensure the sport’s long-term success.
NFL Football Operations’ mission is to establish a culture of clarity, consistency and credibility in all aspects of the greatest game. Football is an essential piece of America’s fabric, uniting fans, players and communities with a simple yet powerful bond. We honor the game’s history while continuing to innovate and preserve the sport for future generations of fans, players, coaches, teams and officials.
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