The tablets can be used by NFL teams to watch videos and view photos from the game instantly. According to Engadget, “For instance, say the quarterback goes back to the bench, the Surface can then be used to see the opposing team’s defensive formation during the most recent drive.”
The fact that they are owned by the NFL is also meant to discourage cheating as they will be locked up when not in use during the games. Third-party app installations will also not be allowed and they will also connect to a private network created by the NFL to prevent any potential intruders. However the use of the tablets is completely optional as coaches still have the option to go old school if they wish.
Either way with this new development, it will be interesting to see if some teams might be able to take advantage of technology to play better.