The NFL has made a controversial rule change banning the hip-drop tackle, a move that has sparked anger among players. USA Today’s Safid Deen reports from the league’s annual meeting, where the decision was discussed.
The new rule aims to eliminate a dangerous technique where a tackler rotates his hips and drops his weight on the legs of the ball-carrier from behind. While fines are expected to be issued for violations during the week, rather than penalties during games, the enforcement of the rule remains a point of contention.
Coaches, including Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Todd Bowles and Denver Broncos’ Sean Payton, express concerns about the officiating of the hip-drop rule. Despite opposition from the NFL Players Association, the rule was passed unanimously by owners in an effort to enhance player safety.
Meanwhile, Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell reflects on the heartbreaking loss in the NFC title game that cost his team a shot at the Super Bowl. Campbell plans to review the game film with his players to learn from the collapse and grow as a team.
In other news, the retirement of Aaron Donald, a first-ballot Hall of Famer, has left a significant impact on the NFL draft board. The Los Angeles Rams’ decision to draft Donald with the 13th pick in 2014 turned out to be a stroke of luck, as he went on to have a stellar career with eight first-team All-Pro nods and Pro Bowl selections in each of his 10 seasons.
The New Orleans Saints are making improvements to their facilities, including a new cafeteria and upgraded weight room, as they prepare to head west for training camp at the University of California-Irvine. The team aims to improve their “F-minus” grade for food services on the NFL Players Association report card.
