The Hip Drop Tackle in the NFL: Exploring the Controversy and Potential Rule Changes

TLDRThe hip drop tackle in the NFL has sparked conversation about player safety and potential rule changes. This tackle involves a defender grabbing the ball carrier, twisting to gain leverage, and then dropping their body weight onto the back of the legs, resulting in significant lower extremity injuries. The NFL is considering defining and possibly outlawing this tackle to protect players from harm.

Key insights

💥The hip drop tackle involves a defender grabbing, twisting, and dropping their body weight onto the back of the legs of the ball carrier.

🛡️This tackle has caused significant lower extremity injuries, including ankle sprains and fractures, in several football games.

💡The National Rugby League has defined and outlawed the hip drop tackle in their league, providing clear guidelines for officials.

🏈The NFL is currently reviewing examples of hip drop tackles to determine a clear definition and potential rule change.

🤔The hip drop tackle is a polarizing topic, with defenders concerned about limited options for tackling ball carriers.

Q&A

What is a hip drop tackle?

A hip drop tackle is a football tackle where a defender grabs the ball carrier, twists to gain leverage, and then drops their body weight onto the back of the legs.

What injuries can occur from a hip drop tackle?

Hip drop tackles can result in significant lower extremity injuries, including ankle sprains and fractures.

Has the hip drop tackle been outlawed in any other leagues?

Yes, the National Rugby League has defined and outlawed the hip drop tackle, providing clear guidelines for officials.

What is the NFL currently doing about the hip drop tackle?

The NFL is reviewing examples of hip drop tackles and considering a clear definition and potential rule change.

What are the concerns about outlawing the hip drop tackle?

Defenders are concerned that limiting the options for tackling ball carriers may impact their ability to defend effectively.

Timestamped Summary

00:00The hip drop tackle in the NFL has sparked conversation about player safety and potential rule changes.

02:56The hip drop tackle involves a defender grabbing, twisting, and dropping their body weight onto the back of the legs of the ball carrier, causing significant lower extremity injuries.

04:02The National Rugby League has defined and outlawed the hip drop tackle, providing clear guidelines for officials.

05:21The NFL is currently reviewing examples of hip drop tackles to determine a clear definition and potential rule change.

06:48The hip drop tackle is a polarizing topic, with defenders concerned about limited options for tackling ball carriers.