The NFL's new rule banning the hip-drop tackle has officially been put into play this season, but its enforcement has already come under scrutiny. The rule, designed to enhance player safety, imposes a 15-yard penalty and an automatic first down on the defense. However, the NFL's officiating body has struggled to consistently enforce this rule through the first 31 games of the current season.
Inconsistent Enforcement
Multiple instances of the banned tackle have been identified in the initial weeks, yet penalties have been scarce. Officials missed calls on at least two hip-drop tackles in Week 1, sparking criticism. One such instance involved Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards, who escaped penalty for his action. Although Edwards dodged a penalty on the field, he may still face a fine from the league, underscoring the ongoing challenges in rule enforcement.
Impact on Players
The enforcement issues are not merely academic; they have real implications for player safety. Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon is currently dealing with an ankle injury, suspected to have resulted from a hip-drop tackle. During Sunday's game, Mixon left the field with an ankle injury and was later listed as questionable to return. Though he did make a comeback in the fourth quarter, the scare highlights the potential dangers posed by the tackle.
"Joe got rolled up. The guy's weight definitely came down on his ankle. Didn't look good from my view," said Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans. He further 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."
Mixon himself took to Twitter to voice his concerns, saying, "The NFL and NFLPA made it a rule and an emphasis for a reason. Time to put your money where your mouth is."
The Definition and Risks of Hip-Drop Tackles
The NFL describes the hip-drop tackle 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 form of tackle poses significant risks, including severe leg injuries that can sideline players for extended periods. The emphasis on banning this tackle aims to protect players from such injuries, yet the inconsistent enforcement undermines this intention.
A Call to Action
With the season still in its early stages, it remains to be seen how rigorously the rule will be upheld moving forward. Inconsistencies in officiating not only undermine the rule's intention but also put player safety at risk. Officials are responsible for ensuring that all mandated safety measures are upheld throughout the game. Failure to do so compromises the integrity of the game and the well-being of its players.
Mixon awaits the results of his MRI, a stern reminder of what is at stake. As the NFL and its officiating body navigate the challenges of enforcing the new rule consistently, they must rise to the occasion to ensure that the game remains as safe as possible for its players. The rule exists for a reason, and it is imperative that those tasked with its enforcement take their responsibilities seriously.