Forward Fumbles Out of Bounds to be Returned to the Spot of the Fumble 3-4-3, 4-3-1 EXCEPTION (NEW) –
A situation potentially giving an unfair advantage to a fumbling team was revised. When a forward fumble goes out of bounds or is ruled out of bounds between the goal lines, the ball shall be returned to the spot of the fumble.

2025 EDITORIAL CHANGES

1-5-1b(2)b(1); 1-5-1b(3)b(1); 2-32-16d; 2-33-1, 2; 2-41-9b; 6-1-9; 7-2-5b EXCEPTION 2; 7-5-12; 9-4-3 (NEW); 9-8-1g; 10-3-1, 2; 10-4-2; 10-4-4a; 10-5-3; PENALTY SUMMARY;

2025 POINTS OF EMPHASIS

Illegal and Improperly Worn Player Equipment
Sportsmanship
Defenseless Player / Targeting

Updated PDF version link: nfhs.org/sports-resource-content/football-rules-changes-2025/#