After months of deliberation, the NFL has officially banned the controversial hip-drop tackle, a move met with resistance from the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). Despite objections, the league’s competition committee, led by executive vice president Jeff Miller and chairman Rich McKay, emphasized the tackle’s significantly higher injury rate compared to conventional tackles.
The decision, passed unanimously, comes after extensive scrutiny over defining the hip-drop tackle, with McKay illustrating examples during a recent media session. Notably, the ban targets the “swivel” version of the tackle, acknowledging challenges in consistent officiating.
Incidents involving star players like Patrick Mahomes and Mark Andrews have fueled discussions around the tackle’s safety. However, questions remain on how officials will be trained to enforce the new rule effectively.
The NFLPA expressed concerns ahead of the decision, citing potential confusion for players, coaches, officials, and fans alike. Despite this, voices from both current and former players, including Jevon Holland, Josh Metellus, J.J. Watt, and Kenyan Drake, have emerged both in support and opposition to the ban, adding further complexity to the ongoing debate.