Cowboys owner Jerry Jones anticipates NFL to ban hip-drop tackle: “It’s very obvious that it’s injurious”

The NFL’s pursuit of innovation often intersects with concerns for player safety. Recent attention has focused on tackling several techniques, particularly the controversial “hip-drop” tackle. The Philadelphia Eagles “tush push” raised eyebrows but didn’t hold a broader impact like the hip-drop tackle.

The NFL competition committee has proposed penalizing this technique, signaling a proactive stance on player welfare. This move aligns with the league’s ongoing commitment to mitigating injury risks. Influential figures like Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones support the anticipated ban on this dangerous tackle.

Jerry Jones believes NFL must ban hip-drop tackle

Jerry Jones has voiced his firm belief that the NFL must ban the controversial hip-drop tackle. He expressed his confidence that the ban is imminent, likening it to the league’s previous decision to outlaw the horse-collar tackle due to its injurious nature.

“You can coach that one. In my mind, that’s one of the easier deals. It reminds me a little of [the] horse collar. That’s needed. That’s very needed. It’s very obvious that it’s injurious,” Jones said.

Jones highlighted the sudden and potentially catastrophic impact of the hip-drop tackle and described it as akin to being “shot between the eyes” for the offensive player. He also mentioned the urgent need to address this issue by stating, “Well, that’s got to rupture something.”

The debate over the hip-drop tackle has taken center stage at the NFL owners’ meetings in Texas, with Commissioner Roger Goodell leading the charge for its prohibition. Goodell has made it clear that the prevalence of this technique and its potential for causing serious injuries demand immediate action.

The NFL Players Association is still in favor of the hip-drop tackle. However, Goodell and league officials are determined to push forward with the ban. The NFL owners are expected to vote on the proposal in the coming days, with Goodell urging collective support for its implementation ahead of the 2024 season.

How dangerous is hip-drop tackle?

The hip-drop tackle is characterized by the defender grabbing the ball carrier around the waist, twisting, and falling down. It has raised concerns due to its potential to cause severe injuries, particularly to the lower legs of the tackled player. According to a report by USA Today, NFL executive Jeff Miller stated that the hip-drop tackle poses a risk of injury 25 times greater than a normal tackle.

Recent incidents have also intensified scrutiny on the hip-drop tackle. Last season, a tackle executed by Cincinnati Bengals star Logan Wilson on Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews resulted in a likely season-ending ankle injury for Andrews.

Similarly, Miami Dolphins superstar wide receiver Tyreek Hill fell victim to a hip-drop tackle during a nationally televised “Monday Night Football” game against the Tennessee Titans. It ultimately led to a debilitating ankle injury that significantly impacted his performance for the remainder of the game.

The resemblance of the hip-drop tackle to the banned “horse-collar tackle” is striking. Just as the horse-collar tackle was outlawed due to its potential for causing serious harm to players, the hip-drop tackle’s injurious nature warrants attention and action. Enforcing rules to prevent the hip-drop tackle may pose challenges, but it is essential for the safety and well-being of players.