With all the rule changes playing defense in the modern NFL is incredibly difficult. Trying to sack the quarterback sometimes feels like there’s a 50/50 chance you will draw a flag. There are so many subjective rules that officials have to try and determine in an instant that change the outcome of the game. The Cleveland Browns and Myles Garrett know all about borderline calls and no-calls.
The #NFL is planning to have an "active conversation" this offseason about possibly banning the “hip drop” tackles, according to NFL's CMO Allen Sills. pic.twitter.com/9g66NULgby
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 4, 2023
Now the NFL seems to be considering another change as they are set to discuss making “hip drop” tackles a penalty. A hip drop tackle is what caused the injury to Tony Pollard but in the heat of the moment, I highly doubt the defenders are trying to intentionally hurt someone.
This rule should not be passed as it feels similar to being able to challenge pass interference which only lasted a season. If the league continues to make it more difficult to play defense it will hurt the overall product. You cannot protect players from every injury in this sport and this seems like an unnecessary change that should not occur.
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