NFL rule change to eliminate automatic first downs on illegal contact, defensive holding; Would it benefit the Ravens?

The NFL’s Annual League Meeting will occur at the end of March and prior to the Owners sitting down, NFL rule change proposals have been submitted and released.

Among the most significant is the suggested change by the Detroit Lions, which would “eliminate an automatic first down as a penalty imposed for defensive holding and illegal contact.”

The change would make the penalty five yards and (assumedly) a replay of the down if the five-yard infraction does not surpass the first-down marker.

A response from Warren Sharp pointed toward the Lions wanting the change as they commit both infractions more than any other team. The Ravens weren’t much further down the rankings, tying for fifth-most…