The NFL is reintroducing the “Third-Quarterback Rule” for the 2023 season. But before the first game day, the league has to publish a question and answer catalogue about it

Some rules in the NFL are complex. But some are more complex than they need to be. And some end up being so confusing that the league even has to publish an extensive question and answer catalogue on them.

Like the NFL’s third-quarterback rule.

The rule existed from 1991 to 2010 and was discussed after the NFL Championship Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers, when quarterbacks Brock Purdy and Josh Johnson were injured. In the end, the 49ers were completely without a chance without a fit playmaker.

The “third-quarterback rule” was therefore reintroduced for the new season. However, with a few decisive changes.

The most important is that the third quarterback has to be part of the 53-man squad of the team; it is not possible to pull him up from the practice squad if necessary.

Previously, the third quarterback did not count against the player limit if two playmakers were among the 45 players dressed for game day. The rule was abolished in 2011, when the NFL allowed 46 players to start.

So, in the upcoming season, unlike in the past, teams must now reserve a roster spot for the third-string quarterback in case they want to use him in a pinch. As of now, 13 teams have a third playmaker on the roster. Whether the teams sacrifice a spot for a case that is annoying to dramatic, as in the Championship Game, but also rare, remains questionable.

No tricks with quarterback 3

Should they decide to do so, however, there are other things to consider.

If QB1 and QB2 cannot play, QB3 may take the field. The first two playmakers can return to the field should they be given the green light to continue playing after an injury. It is also clear that the third man is not there to replace the first two because they are playing poorly.

And: The third quarterback must be an established quarterback, so no running backs or tight ends may be listed as the third quarterback. QB3 may also only play quarterback, plus he may not be used in a Wildcat formation. He must be the one to take the snap. The rule is also not intended to give a rookie playing practice.

If the guidelines are violated, it will be penalised with an Unsportsmanlike Conduct, i.e. an unsportsmanlike offence.