The rivalry between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cleveland Browns goes all the way back to 1950, born out of the AAFC-NFL merger that placed them in the same conference and sparked decades of hard-fought battles. But this offseason, something feels different. For once, that edge and bitterness have taken a backseat. Instead of clashing, both teams have found themselves moving in the same direction: each pushing for change, united by a shared goal of reshaping NFL rules in their own way.

The Steelers are pushing a tweak related to free agency as NFL Football Operations shared on X: “To make permanent the change implemented during the 2025 season that permits clubs to have one video or phone call with no more than five prospective Unrestricted Free Agents during the Two-Day Negotiation Period, and to permit clubs to make travel arrangements with such players upon agreeing to terms.”

Interestingly, the Steelers suggested it last spring, and the league also approved some part of it before this year’s free agency starts.

“A subtle but significant change when the NFL’s free agent negotiating window opens Monday: For the first time, clubs may conduct one video or phone call (maximum 1 hour) with up to five free agents, rather than communicating strictly through their agents as in past years,” Tom Pelissero reported on X days before the free agency.

“The Steelers proposed this rule change, and it was quietly approved last spring. Each call can last a maximum of 1 hour. A positive for everyone involved, including the players who will actually get to talk to coaches and others before making life-changing decisions.”

Now, the Black and Gold want this rule permanently, while also adding the ability to arrange travel once teams agree on terms with the players.

Previously, teams could only negotiate through agents during the legal tampering window. The player stayed out of direct talks. But now, with this new rule, there is no barrier, and it changes the tone of negotiations. A direct conversation with coaches or front offices can easily shape a player’s decision.

Because of that, Pittsburgh could see real benefits. Since free agency started, they have been linked to names like Stefon Diggs. They want a reliable WR behind DK Metcalf. Metcalf is on an elite level, but the rest of the receiving unit lacked consistency. So, with this rule, the Black and Gold can make a stronger, more personal pitch to Diggs.

Apart from this, a second rule change was also proposed, this time by their AFC North rival.

The Browns proposed a ‘risky’ rule

The Cleveland Browns have proposed a change that could stretch how far teams can plan ahead.

“To allow draft selections to be traded up to five (5) seasons in the future,” NFL Football Operations shared on X.

If this gets the green light, teams could trade draft picks much further into the future. For instance, the Browns could start trading their 2029 picks as soon as this offseason. They even tried this out last year by being the first team to trade a 2028 pick when they acquired offensive tackle KT Leveston from the Rams. But this idea has some real risks.

For example, Cleveland could trade picks for 2031 right now if this rule passes. However, their past gives a reason to be cautious. They traded away first-round picks in 2022, 2023, and 2024 to get Deshaun Watson from Houston, and that decision didn’t turn out well.

Watson had a tough time making a difference when it mattered most. Over three seasons, he played only 19 games and had a passer rating of 80.7, throwing for 3,365 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Still, the Browns believe this change could boost trade activity and give teams more flexibility in shaping their rosters.

Now, all 32 teams, including the Steelers and Browns, will review both rules before the Annual League Meeting from March 29 to April 1. They need 24 out of 32 votes to pass. Let’s see what happens next.