Emerging technologies shaping the NFL

With recent technological advancements, more people have access to real-time games and sports leagues, making the NFL experience even more enjoyable. This has led to the rise in social media groups where sports fans interact with other NFL league fans.

The league has also capitalised on technology by broadcasting its games on non-traditional media and making the viewing experience more convenient. Mobile apps, in particular, improve the overall experience and keep sports followers informed about what’s happening in the league. In addition, thanks to technology such as the Zebra RFID, betters, sportsbooks, and coaches can better analyse players’ performance on the field, thus making informed decisions about their favourites.

This article seeks to explore the emerging technologies shaping the NFL.

Sideline Viewing Systems and Surface Tablets

Coaches relied on faxed images of defensive and offensive formations on the sidelines of the series. However, in 2015, the NFL started to track player movement with the Microsoft Surface Pro 3, a tablet with a stylus that allows coaches to gather valuable data about the players. This data offers the technical bench valuable information helpful in making tactical decisions on the game.

The tablets have a unique configuration that prevents anyone from altering information, the addition of more images on the screen and the option of adding multiple colours to represent different characters while scribbling. This game-changing technology has boosted both players’ and coaches’ confidence and morale for the game.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Chips

The NFL has been using Zebra RFID (radio frequency identification) since the 2011-2012 season. The system uses a chip in players’ shoulder pads that captures real-time information, including the player’s distance, position, and speed. This unique feature enables game officials to monitor the game’s progress.

The data captured is useful in producing statistics on how a player is doing on the field compared to other players. Also, coaches can use it to determine what switches they need to make in the team for an upcoming match and the types of exercises that can boost a player’s physical performance.

NFL Helmet Technology

NFL has been dedicated to revolutionising how technology can be leveraged to eliminate injuries during the game. With that, it has awarded grants to software companies to design helmet technology that is safe for the player and useful for game officials.