Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Third Step Rule Controversy Strikes NFL Playoffs Again

1/11/2026

44 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The NFL continues to interpret the catch rule as requiring a third step for a completed catch, according to NFL officiating spokesman Walt Anderson.
In a recent Packers-Bears playoff game, Walt Anderson emphasized this interpretation despite evidence that players can complete a catch without a third step.
Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland had plays where they secured the ball and turned upfield, though rulings favored the third-step requirement.

1 of 1

Story summary

The NFL continues to interpret the catch rule as requiring a third step for a completed catch, according to NFL officiating spokesman Walt Anderson.
In a recent Packers-Bears playoff game, Walt Anderson emphasized this interpretation despite evidence that players can complete a catch without a third step.
Cole Kmet and Colston Loveland had plays where they secured the ball and turned upfield, though rulings favored the third-step requirement.