The NFL’s process for modifying or adopting rules and regulations is systematic and consensus-oriented. The Competition Committee reviews all competitive aspects of the game, including (but not limited to) playing rules, roster regulations, technology, game-day operations and player protection.

The committee’s deliberative process takes into consideration the input of experts, clubs, players, league committees, the NFL Players Association and other sources.

Commissioner Pete Rozelle created the Competition Committee in 1968, two years after the announcement that the NFL and the AFL would merge before the 1970 season. It replaced the Rules Committee, which was formed in 1932 to help develop the professional game’s playing rules as it moved away from the college rulebook, which was used in the league’s earliest days.

The Competition Committee’s actions are based, in part, on feedback from a variety of sources. At the end of each season, the 32 NFL clubs complete a survey, answering questions about player protection, officiating, competitive balance and technology.

Leading up to the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, NFL Football Operations staff meets with coaches, general managers, players and NCAA representatives to gather their input about potential changes to the rules. There is also a review of data on injuries, instant replay and technology.

The committee meets prior to the Combine to prepare agenda items, discuss the feedback it received and review information with league medical advisors, members of the coaches’ and general managers’ subcommittees and NFL Players Association representatives.

After the combine, the committee reconvenes to review video, draft rule proposals and positions, discuss proposals submitted by clubs and prepare the Competition Committee Report, an annual look at all aspects of the game, which is reviewed at the league’s annual meeting.

At the annual meeting, the Competition Committee presents on the strength and overall state of the game to the 32 clubs, who vote on any proposed new rules or rules changes. To be adopted, a new rule or a revision must have the support of 75 percent of the owners (24 “yes” votes out of 32 clubs).

During the season, the committee meets occasionally to review current issues in the game and to begin planning for the future.

The members of the Competition Committee, appointed through the NFL Football Operations department with the with the approval of the Commissioner, currently include:

Rich McKay (Co-Chairman) – Atlanta Falcons

Stephen Jones (Co-Chairman) – Dallas Cowboys

Katie Blackburn – Cincinnati Bengals

Tony Boselli – Jacksonville Jaguars

Todd Bowles – Tampa Bay Buccaneers

John Lynch – San Francisco 49ers

John Mara – New York Giants

Sean McVay – Los Angeles Rams

Kevin O'Connell – Minnesota Vikings

Sean Payton – Denver Broncos

DeMeco Ryans – Houston Texans

Mike Vrabel – New England Patriots