The hip drop tackle has been a topic of discussion in the NFL for quite some time now. With the latest news that it’s being presented as a possible rule change to the league, that conversation doesn’t seem to be going anywhere.
While hip drop tackles have caused injuries, just how (and if they even should) govern it, has been a hot topic for debate. Yesterday on social media, many NFL players showed their displeasure with making it a penalty.
NFL Players React to Hip Drop Tackle Proposal
The NFL Competition Committee officially proposed to prohibit hip drop tackles, a proposal that would see a defender face a 15-yard penalty for grabbing the ball carrier with both hands or wrapping the ball carrier with both arms and then swiveling or dropping his hips or lower body and landing on and trapping the runner’s leg below the knees.
While the rule itself is rooted in player safety, there has been fierce pushback from the NFL Player’s Association, and current and former players across social media took to the internet to voice their displeasure with the idea.
I just wish they forced the entire Competition committee to create examples of how they expect a Defender to tackle a ball carrier. I want them to act it out at full speed and create a video for the players. At some point during the creation of that video they will realize how…
— Richard Sherman (@RSherman_25) March 20, 2024
Former NFL cornerback and current analyst Richard Sherman made his feelings clear on the matter.
“I just wish they forced the entire Competition committee to create examples of how they expect a Defender to tackle a ball carrier. I want them to act it out at full speed and create a video for the players. At some point during the creation of that video they will realize how insane this is.”
.@RSherman_25 idk what to say about this one…this is insane! https://t.co/wC2HNfdbIo
— Dez Bryant (@DezBryant) March 20, 2024
Former Dallas Cowboys WR Dez Bryant was shocked by the proposal as well and took to social media to not only voice his opinion but also to mention Sherman as well.
“@RSherman_25 idk what to say about this one…this is insane!”
This shit is crazy! https://t.co/5cF8ARxCfB
— Darius Slay (@bigplay24slay) March 20, 2024
Philadelphia Eagles CB Darius Slay did not mince words on the matter.
“This s— is crazy!”
— Cam Jordan (@camjordan94) March 20, 2024
New Orleans Saints DL Cam Jordan’s message was short, but there is no confusion when it comes to how he feels about the rule change proposal.
“🗑️ 🚮”
The NFLPA themselves released a statement regarding the proposal and made their stance clear when it came to opposing the proposed change.
“The players oppose any attempt by the NFL to implement a rule prohibiting a ‘swivel hip-drop’ tackle.
“While the NFLPA remains committed to improvements to our game with health and safety in mind, we cannot support a rule change that causes confusion for us as players, for coaches, for officials and especially, for fans. We call on the NFL, again, to reconsider implementing this rule.”
KEEP READING: Proposed 2024 NFL Rule Changes
Miss football? The 2024 NFL Draft is almost here, boss. Pro Football Network has you covered with everything from team draft needs to the Top 100 prospects available. Plus, fire up PFN’s Mock Draft Simulator to put yourself in the general manager’s seat and make all the calls!