MLS announces two new rules for NEXT Pro: What are they?

Two new rules of competition will take effect in MLS NEXT Pro, starting with this week's matches.

What is MLS NEXT Pro?

It is a professional men's football league in the United States and Canada, launched in March 2022, providing players with a pathway from MLS NEXT to the top MLS teams.

It has 21 clubs participating in the inaugural season, 20 MLS affiliates and one independent club, Rochester New York FC.

More independent and MLS-affiliated clubs are expected to join MLS NEXT Pro in the coming years.

What are the new rules?

1. OFF-FIELD TREATMENT RULE

If the referee stops play due to a potential player injury, the player may be required to leave the field of play for 3 minutes.

Referee will stop play if a player is suspected to have an injury and is on the ground for longer than 15 seconds. Prior to the medical staff entering the field of play, the referee may ask the player if he requires on-field medical attention.

After 15 seconds, if play does not continue, the referee will wave the medical crew on the field to evaluate the player.

The 3 minutes that a player must remain off the field commences once the ball is in play.

There are specific exceptions to the three-minute requirement, including possible head injuries, cardiac problems or if a player is bleeding.

2. RED CARD SUSPENSION RULE

If a player receives a red card (second yellow card or straight red card), the player will serve a 1 game suspension versus the same team against which the player received the red card.

When will they be implemented?

Both rules will be implemented immediately, effective Thursday, when Rochester New York FC hosts Philadelphia Union II ( 7 pm ET) and will be in use through the 2022 season.

The two new rules will be re-evaluated at the end of the season.