Has a Football Ever Hit a Drone during an NFL Game? Debunking the Myth

Football fans and aviation enthusiasts alike have pondered if a football has ever hit a drone during an NFL game. While the evidence is inconclusive, it is important to understand the technological systems in place and the regulations surrounding drones in these stadiums.

Understanding the Technology: Skycam

For those who are unfamiliar, Skycam is a computer-controlled, stabilized camera system first introduced in 1984. This system allows for three-dimensional movement through the open space over a playing area, providing unique camera angles for television sports coverage. While Skycam wire incidents have been reported, there is no concrete evidence to substantiate claims of footballs actually hitting drones.

Suspicious Incidents in NFL History

There have been a couple of instances in NFL history where footballs seemed to alter their flight in a manner that is not easily explained. For instance, in the fourth quarter of a 2016 game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Oakland Raiders, Derek Carr threw a long pass to Amari Cooper that inexplicably fell incomplete. The video evidence suggests that the pass might have hit the Skycam wire. Similarly, during a 2017 Monday night game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals, Andy Dalton’s pass to A.J. Green also appeared to flutter to the ground in a suspicious fashion. Fans and even NBC Sports have posited that these passes hit the Skycam wire, but a definitive answer remains elusive.

Technical and Regulatory Context

It’s important to note that such incidents are likely not due to drones but rather the result of technical issues with the Skycam system. Additionally, for anyone considering flying a drone near an NFL stadium, there are several regulatory and safety measures in place.

Regulations and Safety Measures

NFL stadiums have temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) during games. Any drone flown in the vicinity must be authorized. If a drone flies near the stadium without authorization, it violates the TFR, and law enforcement intervenes to locate and secure the airspace. Given the active aerial systems and strict regulations, it is extremely unlikely that a football would hit a drone during an NFL game.

In conclusion, while there have been instances of suspicious flight patterns during NFL games, concrete evidence of footballs hitting drones remains inconclusive. The technological systems in place and the stringent regulations surrounding drone flights in NFL venues make such an occurrence highly improbable. The next time you watch a game, enjoy the thrilling plays and rest assured that the skies above the stadium are safe and secure.