The NFL made waves this offseason with their decision to outlaw the hip-drop tackle. This controversial move marked a significant shift in the game, as this once common tackling technique was now deemed a penalty, resulting in a 15-yard penalty and an automatic first down for the offense. However, as the season progressed, it became apparent that the officials were struggling to enforce this new rule effectively.
In a recent game, Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon fell victim to the banned hip-drop tackle, causing him to sustain an ankle injury. As Mixon prepares for an MRI to assess the damage, questions arise about the enforcement of the rule. Mixon, frustrated by the lack of consistency in penalizing the hip-drop tackle, took to Twitter to express his dissatisfaction, stating, “The NFL and NFLPA made it a rule and an emphasis for a reason. Time to put your money where your mouth is.”
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans also weighed in on the controversial play, expressing concern for Mixon’s well-being. “Joe got rolled up. The guy’s weight definitely came down on his ankle,” Ryans commented. “Didn’t look good from my view. We’ll evaluate Joe throughout the week. Hopefully, he’s okay. Have to see the film and see if it was really a hip-drop tackle.”
Despite clear evidence of hip-drop tackles occurring in games, referees have been hesitant to throw the flag. In fact, sources revealed that the NFL identified two instances of the outlawed tackle in Week 1 alone that went uncalled. Although Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards escaped a penalty for a similar tackle, rumors suggest that the league may still fine him for the infraction.
For those curious about the specifics of the NFL’s definition of a hip-drop tackle, the rulebook states, “It is a foul if a player uses the following technique to bring a runner to the ground: (a) grabs the runner with both hands or wraps the runner with both arms; and (b) unweights himself by swiveling and dropping his hips and/or lower body, landing on and trapping the runner’s leg(s) at or below the knee.”
As the debate over the hip-drop tackle rages on, players, coaches, and fans alike are left wondering if the NFL will take more decisive action to enforce the new rule and protect the safety of its athletes. The coming weeks will undoubtedly shed light on the league’s commitment to upholding the ban on this controversial tackling technique.