The NFL Considers Banning Hip-Drop Tackle After Mark Andrews’ Injury
The NFL is set to review the controversial hip-drop tackle as part of its offseason rule changes, and the recent injury to Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews is expected to factor heavily into the decision-making process.
During Thursday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Andrews was injured in the first quarter after a hip-drop tackle by Bengals linebacker Logan Wilson. The same type of tackle caused a high ankle sprain to Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes during last season’s playoffs, sparking discussions about the potential danger of the move.
Following the game, Ravens coach John Harbaugh confirmed that Andrews’ injury is serious and “it looks like a season-ending injury.” The loss of Andrews, a key player in the Ravens’ passing game and a three-time Pro Bowler, will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the team’s performance for the rest of the season.
The hip-drop tackle has been a subject of debate in recent years, with some calling for it to be outlawed due to the potential for serious injury. In the tackle, a defender uses his weight to pull an opponent down, often pinning the ballcarrier’s legs underneath. The NFL’s competition committee is now under pressure to consider banning the move following the string of recent injuries linked to it.
Andrews limped to the locker room and was later seen on crutches, further underscoring the severity of his injury. As the league considers potential changes to the rules, it’s clear that the impact of the hip-drop tackle has become a significant concern for player safety.
While it may not be much consolation to Andrews and the Ravens, there is a possibility that by next season, the hip-drop tackle may no longer be an allowed move in the NFL.