Youth football to see drastic changes to fundamental format

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The prominent national governing body for youth football could make major changes to the sport.

USA Football has created a new format for youth tackle football that will be tested and potentially rolled out over the next couple years, according to the New York Times.

The new format includes having fewer players, a smaller field, no special teams like kicking and punting and the elimination of the three-point stance.

"There's always concerns from first time parents," James Johnson, who coaches the South Charlotte Rams, said. "The injuries come from poor technique, not from the game itself."

Over the next couple years, Johnson could find himself coaching a slightly different version of football.

Johnson says he understands why people are nervous about the changes and he shares some of their concerns.

He says his team has overwhelming interest to join mainly because people know players will learn the proper way to play to minimize harm.

Former football player Jeremy Davis is worried the changes may water down the sport and not prepare youth properly for the next level.

"I think it is a good team sport to help young men develop," Davis said. "It's always techniques with any sport you play, as long as you learn those techniques I think you should be fine."

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