The National Football League (NFL) has introduced a new rule this season, aimed at banning the perilous hip-drop tackle. This rule not only imposes a 15-yard penalty but also grants an automatic first down to the offense, reinforcing the league’s commitment to player safety. However, its enforcement has already sparked controversy.
Early Challenges in Enforcement
The officiating body of the NFL has faced criticism for inconsistent enforcement of the new rule during the first 31 games of the season. Despite identifying multiple instances of the banned tackle in the initial weeks, penalties remain infrequent. Notably, officials missed calls on at least two hip-drop tackles in Week 1, leading to concerns over the rule's effective implementation.
One glaring example involves Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards, who executed a hip-drop tackle but escaped any penalty. Although Edwards did not face immediate on-field repercussions, he may still incur a fine from the league.
Impact on Player Safety
A particularly worrying case emerged when Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon suffered an ankle injury that may have been the result of a hip-drop tackle. Mixon had to leave the field and was listed as questionable to return. Although he made a comeback in the fourth quarter, his injury underscores the significant risks associated with this form of tackle.
The NFL's description of a hip-drop tackle details it as a foul occurring when a player grabs the runner with both hands or wraps the runner with both arms, unweights himself by swiveling and dropping his hips and/or lower body, and lands on the runner's legs at or below the knee. This maneuver can lead to severe leg injuries, potentially sidelining players for extended periods.
Voices from the Field
Joe Mixon took to Twitter to express his concern, stating, "The NFL and NFLPA made it a rule and an emphasis for a reason. Time to put your money where your mouth is." His coach, DeMeco Ryans, also weighed in, saying, "Joe got rolled up. The guy's weight definitely came down on his ankle. Didn't look good from my view." Ryans added, "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."
Future Implications
With the season still in its early stages, it remains to be seen how rigorously the hip-drop tackle rule will be enforced moving forward. Inconsistencies in officiating not only undermine the rule's intention but also put player safety at risk. Officials are tasked with ensuring all mandated safety measures are upheld throughout each game, and failure to do so compromises both the integrity of the game and the well-being of its players.
Mixon awaits the results of his MRI, and his condition will likely influence ongoing discussions about the rule's enforcement and the overarching commitment to player safety in the NFL.