NFL Goalposts Evolve Over Time, Moving From Goal Line to End Zone

The design and placement of NFL goalposts have changed significantly since the league's early days.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The NFL's goalposts have undergone several changes over the decades, moving from the goal line to the end line and evolving in shape from an H-design to a 'sling-shot' style. These changes were made to impact gameplay, with the goalposts' position affecting field goal attempts and end zone passing plays.

Why it matters

The evolution of NFL goalposts reflects the league's efforts to shape the game, with rule changes aimed at increasing scoring, opening up the end zone, and reducing the impact of field goals. These changes have had a tangible effect on gameplay and strategy over the years.

The details

In the early days of the NFL, goalposts were placed on the goal line, similar to rugby. In the late 1920s, they were moved to the end line, leading to fewer field goals and more tied games. The league then moved them back to the goal line in 1933 to increase scoring. In 1966, the goalposts were offset from the goal line, and in 1967 their shape was changed to a 'sling-shot' design. Finally, in 1974 the goalposts were permanently placed at the back of the end zone to encourage offenses to go for touchdowns over field goals.

  • In the late 1890s, rugby inspired the early placement and design of NFL goalposts.
  • In the late 1920s, the NFL pushed its goalposts to the end line, following NCAA rules at the time.
  • In 1933, the NFL wrote its own rules and moved the goalposts back to the goal line.
  • In 1966, the NFL required goalposts to be offset from the goal line.
  • Ahead of the 1967 season, the NFL mandated the 'sling-shot' shape for goalposts.

The players

Paul Brown

Hall of Fame NFL coach who noted that moving the goalposts to the end line opened up the end zone for more pass plays.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Moving the posts also opened up the end zone for more pass plays.”

— Paul Brown, Hall of Fame NFL Coach (Sports Illustrated)

The takeaway

The evolution of NFL goalposts reflects the league's ongoing efforts to shape the game, with rule changes aimed at increasing scoring, opening up the end zone, and reducing the impact of field goals. These changes have had a tangible effect on gameplay and strategy over the decades.