What rules changed for 2026?

Two playing-rule changes, plus one equipment rule taking effect:

• Slapping the head (Rule 9-4-7): the words "defensive" and "blocker's" were removed, so no player, on offense or defense, may slap an opponent's head. It's an illegal personal contact foul: 15 yards.
• Play cards (Rule 1-5-3c(9)): may now be worn on the belt as well as the forearm/wrist. The committee found belt-worn cards pose no risk to the player or opponent.
• Tooth and mouth protectors (Rule 1-5-1d(5)), adopted in 2025, effective 2026: no attachments that don't serve to protect the teeth or mouth, and nothing that's a health or safety risk to the wearer or other players.

There were also editorial changes to several rules and to the official signals.