NFL Could Add Microchips to Footballs to Help Referees Make More Accurate Calls

NFL coaches are allowed two, and sometimes three, challenges in a game. But even with the use of instant replay, some calls are still made incorrectly by referees.

That might not be for long, however.

According to Reuters, the NFL is in discussions with German company Cairos Technologies about putting a microchip in balls to help make better rulings on contentious calls — specifically, on where the ball should be spotted for first-down measurements and whether it crossed the plane for a touchdown.

"Yes, we are talking," Cairos sales director Mario Hanus told Reuters. "There is a demand in American football."

The NFL would not confirm or deny the rumors, but league spokesman Michael Signora did confirm that the league is looking to expand its use of technology.

"We are always exploring ways in which we can be innovative with technology to improve our game and our fans enjoyment of the game," Signora told Reuters.

Nothing’s wrong with helping referees get every call right.