NFL considers eliminating hip-drop tackles, will review the ‘tush push’ again after the season

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The National Football League (NFL) is considering taking action to eliminate the hip-drop tackle, a move prompted by concerns about the increased risk of injury associated with this technique. League executive Jeff Miller recently revealed that statistics show the hip-drop tackle raises the injury risk by a substantial 25 times compared to a standard tackle. The severity of this issue came to the forefront when Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith suffered an injury due to a hip-drop tackle during a game against the Giants in Week 4.

Miller emphasized the need to address this dangerous behavior, stating during league meetings, “It is an unforgiving behavior and one that we need to try to define and get out of the game. To quantify it for you, we see an injury more or less every week in the regular season on the hip-drop.”

Comparing the hip-drop tackle to the previously banned horse-collar tackle, Rich McKay, the chairman of the NFL’s competition committee, described it as a “cousin” of the horse collar. He explained that in the hip-drop tackle, the defender encircles the runner and then swings their weight to fall on the side of the runner’s leg, which can result in ankle or knee injuries. The defender’s tactic makes it difficult for the runner to defend themselves, leading to these injuries.

The NFL is currently gathering data and conducting a study to make an informed decision on whether to ban the hip-drop tackle. While McKay acknowledged that defensive players may not be pleased if this technique is prohibited, he emphasized the league’s responsibility to regulate tactics or techniques that unreasonably increase the risk of injury to players.

In addition to the hip-drop tackle, the NFL is also revisiting the issue of the “tush push,” a unique play used by the Philadelphia Eagles known for its effectiveness. This play involves multiple players pushing the quarterback, Jalen Hurts, across the first-down marker in short-yardage situations. While there was discussion about banning this play after the previous season, no rule was formulated for a vote. The competition committee will continue to monitor the play’s impact and may revisit the issue in the future.

Lastly, the NFL is taking steps to improve diversity in head coaching hires. Owners have voted to delay in-person head coaching interviews until after all divisional playoff games, aiming to slow down the hiring process and increase diverse hiring. The league recognizes the importance of a more inclusive and diverse leadership across the NFL, with a particular focus on head coaching positions.

Regarding international games, the NFL is exploring the possibility of playing games in Spain or Brazil in the upcoming season due to stadium renovations in Mexico. A decision on a fourth international game for 2024 is expected to be announced in December or January.

The NFL also reported a significant reduction in training camp concussions, thanks to the use of Guardian caps, with a 46% reduction in concussions among players who wore them compared to their three-year average. Dr. Allen Sills, the NFL’s chief medical officer, indicated that the next step would be to expand the usage of Guardian caps to players at other positions and work on better helmet designs to further enhance player safety.

In summary, the NFL is actively addressing player safety concerns, exploring international game options, and taking steps to promote diversity in coaching hires.

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