The Canadian Football League (CFL) is set to implement significant changes to its game rules and field dimensions over the next two years. The league announced a two-part plan on Monday aimed at enhancing the entertainment value of the game.

CFL Commissioner Stuart Johnston emphasized the goal of these changes, stating, "This is all about making our great game even more entertaining. We are trading field goals for touchdowns, while improving fan experience in stadiums and at home." He noted that these modifications are among the most substantial in decades, aiming to preserve the league's traditions while adapting to modern needs.

One of the most notable changes will take effect next season. Teams will no longer score a single point from a missed field goal that travels through the end zone. Points will not be awarded for missed field goals, punts, or kickoffs that go through the end zone, whether in the air or after a bounce. A single point will only be awarded if a returner fields a missed kick in the end zone and either kneels or is tackled while attempting to advance the ball.

Additionally, the play clock will see a significant adjustment. Currently, teams have 20 seconds to initiate a play, but this countdown often starts only after an official signals the end of the previous play. Under the new rules, a 35-second automatic reset will begin immediately after a play is dead, streamlining the pace of the game.

In 2026, CFL stadiums will also undergo changes to improve team operations. Team benches will be relocated to opposite sides of the field to facilitate player substitutions, a shift from the current setup where both benches are on the same side.

Further modifications are planned for 2027, when the dimensions of CFL fields will be altered. The length will be reduced from 110 yards to 100 yards, and the end zones will shrink from 20 yards to 15 yards. Goalposts will be moved from the goal line to the back of the newly configured end zones. Despite these changes, the width of CFL fields will remain at 65 yards, compared to the NFL's 53 yards.

The primary objectives of these changes are to increase the number of touchdowns scored and to enhance the overall flow of the game. The CFL rules committee, which includes Johnston, league head coaches, officials, and representatives from the CFL Players’ Association, will review the specific rules affected by these changes during the off-season.