The NFL has officially implemented a rule requiring in-game sideline interviews with head coaches starting in 2024.
This marks a significant change as previously, such interviews were not mandatory.
NFL head coaches will now be required to participate in one live interview with a sideline reporter during each game. This new policy was confirmed by Pro Football Talk’s Mike Florio and announced by NFL Vice President of Broadcast Rights, Policies, and Compliance, Cathy Yancy, during the “Sunday Ticket” trial.
“This year, we have a new policy going into effect where all of the clubs are going to have to make a head coach available live for an interview during the game,” Yancy stated during the trial, as transcribed by Florio. “Each team has to provide a head coach; one in the first half, one in the second half. And that’s for all teams, and it’s available for all TV partners.”
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The rationale behind this change is to enhance the broadcast experience for viewers.
“It’s good for the broadcast, it’s good for the fans,” Yancy explained. “Fans want to be closer to the game, they want to get to know the players and the coaches. It’s very important that they kind of have that relationship, and they want to hear. It’s really good sound. If you’re a football fan or even if you’re a casual fan, it’s great to hear from the coaches. There’s a lot of emotion.”
This new requirement comes in response to the significant financial investments networks make to broadcast NFL games. These networks are keen to deliver in-game interviews with coaches, despite the fact that such interviews often provide minimal substantive information. The aim is to bring fans closer to the action and to create a more engaging and immersive viewing experience.
By mandating these interviews, the NFL hopes to offer fans greater insight and connection to the game, players, and coaches, thereby enhancing the overall fan experience.
