Three NFL teams acquired drones to get images of their team practicing from new angles. However, not a single team was able to use the drones for the intended purpose due to restrictive regulations by FAA. The necessity of drone usage for acquiring video footage is under question as many believe that this technology is not entirely necessary for the NFL.
Those who are in favor of using drones in the NFL emphasize on the ability of the drone to fly near the line of scrimmage, which allows teams to identify and rectify their mistakes. However, in the view of the majority of NFL decision-makers, the application of drone technology in the NFL is not justifiable at the moment.
According to Baltimore Ravens coach, John Harbaugh, drone technology is like any new technology, which seems attractive at first, however, when you start thinking about the applications of the technology, it may not get you very far. He also added that this technology will not alter the way the game is taught, however, it might add newer tool of teaching.
The introduction of drone technology in the NFL was done by a company known as Media Right when it introduced an unmanned craft named Phantom 3. The application of this model in the NFL was justified with the fact that it can provide clear and stable video. This model is also easier to control as compared to past models which fell into trees or otherwise got damaged.
Although the application of drones in the NFL is significant due to the drone’s ability to capture valuable footage from unique angles, the restrictions may limit the use of the technology.