NFL Rumors: Roughing the Passer Penalty Reviews Lack Support amid Rule Change Talks

While player and fan frustration grew with the inconsistencies of roughing the passer penalties during the 2022 NFL season, it does not appear they're going to become reviewable.

Judy Battista of NFL Network reported that there didn't "seem to be enough support" among the league's competition committee for the rule change.

NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent revealed in December that the league planned on exploring making roughing the passer penalties reviewable.

"The officials have been very consistent and accurate, but they are human," Vincent said. "That will be a healthy discussion [in] the offseason with the competition committee. ... I'll be looking forward to this discussion."

The Los Angeles Rams formally proposed making roughing the passer penalties reviewable in February.

Penalties have historically not been subject to reviews. The lone exception came in the 2019 season, which was largely seen as an unmitigated disaster. The NFL scrapped the one-year experiment in 2020, reverting to the previous policy.

Roughing the passer, like pass interference, is a largely subjective call that can draw frustration for being inconsistently called. Many critics have pointed to quarterbacks being overly protected to the point defenders are afraid to hit them in the pocket.

"It's costing teams games," Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Chris Jones told reporters in October. "How should I tackle people? How should I not roll on him? I'm trying my best. I'm 325 pounds, OK? What do you want me to do? I'm going full speed trying to get the quarterback."

While the NFL may not make roughing the passer calls renewable, the league may explore putting in further clarifications to make the calls more straightforward for officials moving forward.