The NFL has taken a significant step towards enhancing player safety by approving a new rule that bans the swivel hip-drop tackle. This decision, announced on Monday, aims to mitigate the risk of lower-body injuries often resulting from this particular tackling technique. The banned move involves a defender grabbing or wrapping the runner, unweighting themselves by swiveling, dropping their hips, and landing on the runner’s legs below the knee. This rule change introduces a 15-yard penalty for violations, with the NFL emphasizing education over in-game flags, leaning towards warning letters and fines for enforcement.
In addition to this major safety measure, the league also approved two other rule proposals. Teams will now gain a third challenge following one successful challenge, a change proposed by the Lions. Moreover, a new regulation addresses the enforcement of fouls during a down with a change of possession, ensuring the team last gaining possession retains the ball after penalty enforcement, provided their foul occurred post-possession.
The NFL’s commitment to player safety is evident in its proactive approach to eliminate potentially harmful actions from the game. While some players and the NFL Players Association have expressed concerns about the rule causing confusion, the league is dedicated to educating teams and officials on identifying and penalizing the now-illegal tackling technique. This move underscores the NFL’s ongoing efforts to protect players and maintain the integrity of the sport.
—
Photo Credit: Twin Design / Shutterstock.com