NFL admits Cowboys should not have had roughing-the-kicker penalty

The NFL has acknowledged an error in a roughing-the-kicker penalty called on Cowboys special teamer Ryan Flournoy during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles. The penalty, which resulted in a 15-yard gain for the Eagles, was issued after Flournoy was flagged for hitting the punter’s plant leg. However, Flournoy had tipped the ball, which should have nullified the penalty.

Mark Butterworth, the NFL's vice president of instant replay, stated that the league was unable to correct the call in real-time due to a delay in receiving an enhanced replay from the broadcast partner, Fox. The crucial replay, which confirmed the ball was tipped, was shown too late to influence the decision. As a result, the Eagles capitalized on the penalty by scoring a touchdown, increasing their lead to 14-0. Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer noted that the team also did not have access to the clear footage until after the play had progressed.