America's Week: 28/3

It’s all good news (at least from where I’m standing). This week has been positive from all angles.

Rule Changes

The most interesting (and game changing) proposal that has been anointed with the royal NFL stamp of approval is the moving of the Extra Point Attempt, to the 20-yard line. This proposal will only be run as a test for the first two weeks of the pre-season schedule, and we’ll then revert to regularity with the expectation that if this is a successful trial it will go into effect for the 2015 season.

The other rule changes that come into effect are as follows;

• The "NaVorro Bowman Rule" was passed. That allows the officials to make the recovery of a loose ball in the field of play a reviewable call. This loophole was exposed when Bowman clearly recovered a ball in the NFC Championship Game last year, but the play couldn't be under review.
• The New England Patriots' proposal to extend the goal posts five feet (to 35 feet) has passed.
• The game clock will now continue after a quarterback sack outside of two minutes.

No others yet, although several other rules are on the table for review in May.

The Football Show

Johnny Manziel finally took to the field for his Pro Day, and he knocked it out of the park. It’s easy to forget how gifted these young men are in the months after their season is over. The only time you get to see them showing off is at the combine, or in their individual workouts and pro days. This was Manziel’s moment, and he more than stepped up to the challenge. He’s almost being thrust back into the top quarterback discussion with Bortles and Bridgewater (and now David Carr).

Free Agency Still Exists

It’s getting admittedly quiet in the free agency ranks, although there are still deals going through across the country. The biggest name left on the board to start the week was Jared Allen, and he made his decision early on Wednesday. He signed a four-year deal with the relatively local outfit that is the Chicago Bears. It was Chicago or Seattle, and by all accounts it was his better half that ultimately had the deciding vote over where she’d rather be.

Making a concerted effort to keep up, but our game is a fast paced one. Up to the minute news over @AScotOnGridiron on Twitter.