In a unanimous decision aimed at increasing player safety, NFL team owners have approved a new rule that prohibits the use of the hip-drop tackle. This controversial technique involves a defender grabbing an offensive player, twisting their body, and then letting go to drive their hip or body weight down onto the opponent.
The hip-drop move, though infrequent, has been deemed excessively dangerous by the league. Jeff Miller, an NFL executive, stated that the tackle was used 230 times last season, sidelining 15 players due to injuries. Rich McKay, chairman of the NFL’s Competition Committee, emphasized that offensive players are defenseless against such hits.
Despite opposition from the NFL Players Association, the league is firm on enforcing the ban. Violations will result in 15-yard penalties and potential fines for players employing the illegal move.
While the new rule pushes a significant change, McKay assured that officials will undergo thorough training, calling penalties only when all criteria for the hip-drop tackle are clearly present.
“You got to see all three elements of what’s going on here. You got to see him grab him. You got to see him control them. You got to see him swivel himself up in the air and you got to see him go unweighted. You don’t see it, don’t call it..We’re going to take all these tapes that you’ve seen. … we’re going to take them all to the clubs and show them: this is what we don’t want. This is what a foul looks like.”
Other rule adjustments approved include an additional coach’s challenge after a successful one and procedures for double fouls involving changes of possession.
The NFL is also considering revamping kickoff rules, potentially voting on a proposal that borrows elements from other pro leagues like the XFL. This would redefine kick formations and return specifics with the goal of reducing injuries on kickoff plays while keeping the exciting phase of the game intact.
