As the NFL's new rule banning the hip-drop tackle takes its first strides into the current season, its enforcement has quickly come under scrutiny. Officially activated this season, the rule aims to address a form of tackling deemed hazardous due to its potential to cause severe injuries to players. The hip-drop tackle, characterized by a player grabbing the runner with both hands or wrapping the runner with both arms and then dropping his hips and lower body onto the runner's legs, landing at or below the knee, has been outlawed with serious repercussions for infractions including a 15-yard penalty and an automatic first down for the offense.
Early Season Struggles
However, through the first 31 games of the season, the NFL's officiating body faces challenges in consistently enforcing this new mandate. Despite its critical intent to safeguard player safety, penalties for the hip-drop tackle have been scarce, raising concerns among both players and coaches. Multiple instances of the banned tackle have already surfaced within the initial weeks of play, yet officials have notably missed calls on at least two hip-drop tackles during Week 1 alone.
One significant example involved Chicago Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards, who escaped penalty for employing a hip-drop tackle. Although Edwards evaded immediate on-field ramifications, the incident may still lead to a fine from the league, illustrating a gap between the rule's existence and its practical, consistent enforcement.
Injury and Impact
The potential consequences of lax enforcement manifested tangibly with Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon's recent injury. During Sunday's game, Mixon left the field due to an ankle injury and was listed as questionable to return. While he did make a comeback in the fourth quarter, the injury spotlighted the dangers the hip-drop tackle poses. Mixon, addressing the tackle and subsequent injury on Twitter, stated, "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, reflecting on Mixon's injury. "Joe got rolled up. The guy's weight definitely came down on his ankle. Didn't look good from my view," said Ryans. He further noted the uncertainty surrounding the nature of the tackle, saying, "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."
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how rigorously this rule will be upheld. The inconsistent officiating has not only undermined the rule's intention of reducing injury risks but has also drawn attention to the broader issues of ensuring player safety. The integrity of the game and the well-being of its players heavily rely on the officials' ability to enforce all mandated safety measures consistently and reliably.
Mixon currently awaits the results of his MRI, with the team hopeful for a positive outcome. His scenario serves as a potent reminder of the risks inherent in the game and the vital importance of rules designed to mitigate such dangers.
Ultimately, the NFL's responsibility extends beyond the creation of safety rules; it must ensure such rules are applied effectively and consistently. The stakes are high, both in terms of player health and the overall credibility of the enforcement body. Future games will test the practical application of the hip-drop tackle rule and, by extension, the league's commitment to player safety.