What is neutral zone infraction?

Neutral zone infraction is a penalty in American football that occurs when a defensive player moves into the neutral zone, which is the area between the offensive and defensive lines, prior to the snap of the ball. This movement can cause the offensive player to false start or can disrupt the timing of the play.

Neutral zone infractions are often called on defensive linemen or linebackers who try to time the snap count in order to get a jump on the offense. The penalty results in a five-yard penalty against the defense and is considered a pre-snap penalty, meaning it is enforced before the play starts.

Neutral zone infractions are considered a type of offside penalty, as both involve a player crossing the line of scrimmage before the ball is snapped. The penalty is meant to prevent defensive players from gaining an unfair advantage over the offense and disrupting the flow of the game.