The NFL’s recent crackdown on the hip drop tackle has caused quite a stir in the football world, with conflicting reports on whether the ban is being strictly enforced on the field. While officials are not throwing flags for the controversial tackle technique during games, the league office is taking matters into their own hands by issuing fines to players who execute the move.
In a surprising turn of events, two players were fined for hip drop tackles in Week 1, despite not receiving penalties during the actual games. Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards is rumored to be one of the players facing a hefty fine for his hit on Texans running back Joe Mixon on a prime time Sunday Night Football matchup.
Edwards’ tackle on Mixon was a textbook example of a hip drop tackle, resulting in an ankle injury for the star running back. Mixon’s status for the rest of the game was immediately thrown into question, as he was seen hobbling off to the X-ray room after being tended to in the sideline medical tent.
As Mixon’s absence loomed large over the Texans offense, backup running back Dameon Pierce was deemed inactive for the game, forcing rookie Cam Akers to step up and make his professional debut in place of the injured Mixon.
Despite Mixon’s impressive performance in the season opener, totaling 30 carries for 159 yards and a touchdown, his production was severely limited in the game following Edwards’ controversial tackle. With only seven carries for 20 yards and three catches for 25 yards, Mixon’s absence was keenly felt by the Texans offense.
The league’s decision to crack down on the hip drop tackle has raised questions about player safety and the enforcement of rules on the field. As fines continue to be issued for tackles that go unpunished during games, the NFL finds itself at a crossroads in how to address this contentious issue moving forward.
