The NFL has been using traditional 10-yard chain gangs for first-down calls during more than 100 years of existence. The AI system Hawk-Eye from Sony introduced by the company holds potential to transform sports officiating by making both calls faster and more precise.
During the 2024-25 preseason Hawk-Eye used 60 cameras with 8K resolution cameras among them to provide real-time ball tracking capabilities. The AI software enables the system to measure ball movement with perfect precision when the marker determines first-downs. According to NFL Deputy CIO Aaron Amendolia Hawk-Eye technology will eliminate 40 seconds from review processes thus shortening game interruptions and enhancing on-field action.
The technology which enhances officiating in tennis and soccer has been designed to remove questionable rulings such as when Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen’s fourth-down attempt was determined short leading to Kansas City Chiefs touchdowns in the AFC Championship game. 
People express doubts about the system even though it performs with great accuracy. Both reviewers and professional football player Travis Kelce think the process takes excessive time as they seek to preserve the historic work of chain gangs in games.
The NFL continues toward technological advancements as they plan additional testing during the subsequent preseason. Success of Hawk-Eye technology would permanently eliminate the chain gangs from first down measurements across American professional football.
