The Canadian Football League has decided to maintain the 20-second play clock for the upcoming season. However, starting in 2026, CFL games will transition to a 35-second play clock but revert to a 20-second clock for the last three minutes of each half. This change was approved by the league’s board of governors based on recommendations from the rules committee, which includes head coaches, team presidents, the Officials Association, and the CFL Players’ Association.
During the final three minutes of each half, the 20-second clock will begin with the snap of the first play following the three-minute warning. Additionally, regular-season games will no longer end in a tie. If teams are still tied after the second overtime mini-game, they will take turns attempting two-point conversions from the three-yard line until a winner is determined. All conversion attempts will be made from the same end of the field where the mini-game took place.
In overtime, each team will have the option to take a 15-second timeout. Furthermore, the replay center will now automatically review turnovers on downs. Other adjustments include the ability for a half or game to conclude with a quarterback kneel if the defense has no timeouts left, certain conditions are met, and there is under 40 seconds left to play.
The league has also made changes to the organization of team bench areas, the handling of field-goal attempts hitting the goalpost, and the introduction of a third ineligible number for teams to provide officials before games. Ineligible receiver penalties will now include the option of an incomplete pass as a potential outcome for the defending team.
Moreover, adjustments have been made to the replay center’s operations to prevent unnecessary delays during games, with a focus on supporting on-field officials only during critical rulings. The CFL regular season is set to commence on June 4, with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats hosting the Montreal Alouettes.