The NFL's new rule banning the hip-drop tackle has officially been put into play this season, and its enforcement has immediately come under scrutiny. Designed to enhance player safety, the rule imposes a 15-yard penalty and an automatic first down on the defense whenever a hip-drop tackle is executed. However, inconsistencies in enforcement have already become apparent through the first 31 games of the current season.
Early Season Struggles
Through these early weeks, multiple instances of the banned tackle have been identified, but penalties for such actions have been scarce. The NFL's officiating body has struggled to consistently enforce the rule, with notable missed calls drawing attention. During Week 1, officials overlooked at least two hip-drop tackles. One such instance involved Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards, who escaped penalty for his actions. Though he avoided in-game consequences, Edwards may still face a fine from the league.
Significant Injury Concerns
The consequences of missed calls were underscored when Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon sustained an ankle injury during a Sunday game. Mixon, who left the field and was later listed as questionable to return, eventually made a comeback in the fourth quarter. His injury, which may have resulted from a hip-drop tackle, highlights the significant risks this form of tackle poses. The NFL describes the hip-drop tackle as occurring when a player grabs the runner with both hands or wraps the runner with both arms, then unweights himself by swiveling and dropping his hips and/or lower body, and lands on the runner's legs at or below the knee.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans provided his perspective on the incident, stating, "Joe got rolled up. The guy's weight definitely came down on his ankle. Didn't look good from my view." He 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."
Player Safety and Rule Enforcement
The early inconsistency in officiating not only undermines the rule's intention but also puts player safety at risk. The hip-drop tackle, with its potential to cause severe leg injuries, can sideline players for extended periods. The NFL, in conjunction with the NFLPA, made this rule and its enforcement an emphasis for a reason. As Joe Mixon pointed out on Twitter, "The NFL and NFLPA made it a rule and an emphasis for a reason. Time to put your money where your mouth is." The league's officials are responsible for ensuring all mandated safety measures are upheld throughout the game. Failure to do so compromises both the integrity of the game and the well-being of its players.
With the season still in its early stages, it remains to be seen how rigorously the rule will be upheld moving forward. The scrutiny over this new rule's enforcement suggests that the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether officials can consistently apply it under game conditions. As for Joe Mixon, the full extent of his injury remains to be seen as he awaits the results of his MRI. The league's handling of such incidents will undoubtedly be closely monitored by players, coaches, and fans alike, all of whom have a vested interest in maintaining both fair play and player safety.