Some upcoming changes to the CFL have sparked quite the conversation amongst the league’s fans.
CFL commissioner Stewart Johnston announced several changes to the league, which many are viewing as an attempt to make the game more similar to the NFL. These rules include downsizing the field from 110 yards to 100, the shrinking of end zones from 20 yards to 15 yards, and the moving of goal posts from the goal line to the back of the end zone.
That isn’t all, either.
The play clock will be moved from 20 seconds to 35 and will reset automatically, just like the NFL. The rouge, meanwhile, is being modified, as teams will no longer receive a point for a missed kick that goes through the end zone. A single point will still be handed out if the kicking team can tackle the ball carrier in his respective end zone.
Though there are some who believe these changes will benefit the CFL, many of the league’s die-hard fans have climbed out of the woodwork to voice their frustration.
“As a person who resides in the states and loves the CFL, this is awful,” one fan wrote on X. “I loved the uniqueness that the CFL has/had. I’m not gonna lie, probably will stop watching and caring now. I’m sad.”
Others voiced similar sentiments, with one fan suggesting it takes away from what are often very exciting finishes to CFL games.
These rules do not improve the game. Especially the 35 second play clock. That Americanizes things and basically kills the exciting finishes that have become a trademark of the league. This is the last thing the league needs
— Chris 🇨🇦🍁 (@ChrisKFilms) September 22, 2025
“Why are we trying to make the CFL into a worse version of the NFL?” one fan questioned. Many are voicing similar concerns, with another claiming that he is “turning in [my] season tickets,” after having them for 10 years.
CFL fans on the league’s new rule changes.
While many have aired their grievances, there are a select few who are seeing the rule changes in a positive light, believing it will help the CFL to bring in more revenue.
“I actually like these changes,” one user wrote. “People complain it’s closer to the NFL. So what? [The] NFL is a very successful product. Maybe that opens more eyes to the league, brings more money, [and] then we see more expansion. I’ll be optimistic.”
The downsizing of the fields, along with the shifting of the goalposts, are changes that will be implemented for the 2027 season. Other rules, such as the 35-second play clock and the modified rouge change, will be in effect come 2026.
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