PHOENIX -- Before the Oakland Raiders play their first game in Las Vegas, the NFL will change a pretty important rule.
For the first time, the league will allow referees and other on-field officials into the city.
Yes, you read that correctly.
To guard against even the appearance of a conflict, the league has for decades prohibited its officials from visiting Las Vegas at any point during the season -- with the exception of personal emergencies or mandatory meetings for their non-NFL jobs. They are allowed to visit in the offseason, provided they inform the NFL office.