NFL bans the hip-drop tackle, and Josh Metellus is among the players who are livid
The NFL has formally voted to make the hip-drop tackle illegal and a 15-yard penalty.
Here are the detailed rules for how it will be enforced:
Full language on the new rules. pic.twitter.com/mqi2OK8aQo
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 25, 2024
This could get very messy. When the NFL made pass interference reviewable, it ended up being a one-year disaster and was removed from the game swiftly.
Needless to say, this isn’t being taken well by numerous individuals in both the media and in the league. One of those very upset with the move to ban the hip drop tackle is Minnesota Vikings safety Josh Metellus.
Competition committee doesn’t care about defense. Every year they make it harder for us to succeed 🤦🏾♂️
— Joshua Metellus (@NoExcuses_23) March 25, 2024
Why can offensive players still cut you? I’m sure bunch of people get hurt from that too but it’s still in the game.
— Joshua Metellus (@NoExcuses_23) March 25, 2024
The NFLPA has been a significant opposition against the rule and now we are starting to hear from the players who it impacts the most. The hip drop tackle in itself isn’t a malicious play but it does result in injuries. The big issue is that the NFL is now asking the officials to make an immediate determination on whether a tackle qualifies or not.
Whether it works or not is going to be a fascinating storyline to watch but it will come with players being very frustrated about it.
