CFL Rule Changes Spark Fierce Debate: Mitchell Defends Modernization as Rourke Slams 'Garbage' Moves

CFL Rule Changes Spark Debate: Mitchell Backs Modernization, Rourke Expresses Disappointment

The Canadian Football League (CFL) is facing controversy over its proposed rule changes, with opinions divided among players. Veteran quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell supports the changes as a way to modernize the game, while Nathan Rourke has strongly criticized them.

Mitchell's Perspective: Modernizing the Game

Bo Levi Mitchell, a 12-year CFL veteran and Hamilton Tiger-Cats quarterback, addressed reporters in Hamilton, defending the proposed changes. He emphasized that the aim is to improve the game's appeal. "This is not about Americanizing the game, this is about modernizing the game," Mitchell said, adding that the goal is to create a "better product on the field, a product that people want to watch, that’s a faster pace."

Mitchell believes the league needs to evolve to address declining attendance and profitability. "This is about trying to create an entertainment factor that can add a dollar, that can make sure that seven out of nine teams aren’t losing money."

Rourke's Criticism: Losing Canadian Identity

Nathan Rourke, a former BC Lions star who spent two seasons in the NFL, voiced strong opposition to the changes. He feels the CFL is moving away from its unique Canadian identity. "What we’re moving toward is not the Canadian football game that I grew up loving," Rourke stated, expressing his disappointment that players weren't consulted.

He lamented the shift towards NFL rules, saying, "I went down and played in the NFL and I came back knowing that this is a game for me because of the uniqueness of it, what’s special about it, and we’re getting away from that." He also expressed he was "pretty pissed off" by the changes.

The Proposed Changes

CFL Commissioner Stewart Johnston's changes, unanimously approved by the Board of Governors, will be implemented over two years:

• 2026: No singles awarded for missed field goals that sail out of the end zone (modified rouge). A 35-second automatic reset on the play clock. Team benches on opposite sides of the field.
• 2027: Goalposts moved to the back of the end zone. End zone shortened from 20 to 15 yards. Field length reduced from 110 to 100 yards, maintaining a 65-yard width.

Additional Perspectives

Montreal Alouettes general manager Danny Maciocia insisted the CFL is maintaining its Canadian identity. "We haven’t touched the ratio, we haven’t touched three downs. It’s still unlimited motion, no fair catch. We just tweaked it a bit, and I think you need to be open-minded."

Calgary Stampeders kicker Rene Paredes expressed concern over the impact on kickers. "Pushing the goalposts to the back of the end zone — and altering the rouge — will give kickers fewer opportunities to score points." He also acknowledged that while it's exciting, taking away the missed field goal return is a loss.

The Kicker's Lament

Paredes anticipates fewer attempts and a diminished role for kickers, though he is "not sorry to see the rouge extinguished." He added, "I feel bad for the kickers," acknowledging their significance in CFL games.