I could argue why you are wrong, but no need. We simply interpret the rule differently. It could go either way, period. Here's the rule...
NFL Pass Interference (PI) is a penalty for illegally hindering a player's chance to catch a forward pass beyond one yard past the line of scrimmage, with defensive PI resulting in the ball placed at the spot of the foul (a "spot foul") plus an automatic first down, while offensive PI moves the ball back (usually 10 yards) and negates scores, with both types being difficult to officiate, leading to frequent controversy and inconsistent calls despite past experimental review rules.
Key Aspects of Pass Interference
Definition: An act by a player that significantly hinders an eligible player's opportunity to catch a forward pass, occurring more than one yard past the line of scrimmage.
Offensive PI: An offensive player interferes with a defender. Often involves setting illegal blocks (picks) for teammates.
Defensive PI: A defender impedes an offensive player from catching the ball.
Penalties
Offensive PI: 10-yard penalty from the previous spot, loss of down (or negates scores if on a scoring play).
Defensive PI: Spot foul (ball placed where foul occurred) and automatic first down.
Controversy & Rules
Subjectivity: Pass interference is notoriously hard for officials to call consistently, leading to debates.
Review Rule (Temporary): The NFL experimented with allowing coaches to challenge PI calls and non-calls in 2019 but did not make it a permanent rule.
Recent Examples: Controversial calls on offensive pass interference in the final minutes of a 2025 Lions game highlighted ongoing debates about the rules' application, as noted by NFL.com and Detroit Free Press.
Key Takeaway: While the rule aims to ensure fair play for receivers, the subjective nature of judging "significant hindrance" often creates inconsistent results, making it one of football's most debated penalties