NFL tries to clarify catch rule

Dez really did catch it. NFL owners unanimously passed the proposal to change the catch rule, 32-0, on Tuesday by eliminating the requirement to maintain possession of the ball throughout the process of going to the ground. The new guidelines that determine what is a catch are control of the ball, two feet down or another body part, and a “football move.”

A “football move” is either a third step, reaching/extending for the lineto-gain, or the ability to perform such an act. The rule has been under scrutiny for several years and its criticism reached new heights during the 2014 playoffs when Cowboys wide receiver Dez Bryant made a diving catch at the 1-yard line against the Packers in a Divisional playoff game, but was ruled incomplete after officials determined he did not maintain possession throughout the process of going to the ground.

The controversial rule struck again this past season in a Week 15 game between the Steelers and Patriots.

Steelers tight end Jesse James caught the ball with 28 seconds left and reached to cross the goal line but lost control when he hit the ground. It was ruled incomplete and the Patriots won the game, 27-24. Both the Bryant and James catch would be completions under the new rule.