In a constantly evolving league like the NFL, changes are needed to keep things under control. Some new NFL rule changes are leaving fans and players in shock, while others are happy with the decisions.
One controversial new rule is the ban on defenders using the “hip-drop” tackle. Many players have been injured from this style of tackle, but it does not justify banning it completely.
Players such as JJ Watt, Cam Jordan, Jevon Holland, and many more took their thoughts to social media after the rule was implemented.
“Just fast forward to the belts with flags on them,” Watt said via X. Many players feel that the league is becoming too soft.
This rule is unfair to the defense, because in some scenarios, a hip-drop tackle is a defender’s only option if he wants to stop his opponent. It is going to be very hard for defenders to tackle from behind this upcoming season, and it will take players a while to adjust.
Another questionable rule added is a new style of kickoff, which has been created in an attempt to avoid more injuries and make it safer for the players.
The kicker will stay at the 35-yard line as usual, and returners will be behind their 20-yard line. The change comes into play for the kicking team, as their other 10 players will now line up on the receiving team’s 40-yard line. The receiving team will line up on the 30-yard line. With 10 yards in between teams, after the returner catches the ball, teams are allowed to attack in the open field.
This will eliminate high-speed collisions and allow a better chance for the returner. In the case of a touchback, the ball will now be placed on the 30-yard line. It also eliminates all fair catches and surprise onside kicks. Now, if a team wants to execute an onside kick, it must notify the officials and the teams are moved back into the old kickoff format.
An additional rule change is that teams now only need one successful challenge to regain a third one. Before, a coach needed to correctly call both challenges. Also, replays can now be used if there is “clear and obvious visual evidence” that the game clock expired before any snap.
Finally, the trade deadline has been extended until after Week 9 of the regular season. In past seasons, trades have ended after Week 8. This does not cause any problems, as it does not harm anyone. It just gives teams more time and more opportunities to make moves throughout the season.
