The NFL has suspended Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu for one game without pay following a series of violations regarding hip-drop tackles. This latest suspension comes after Luvu executed another hip-drop maneuver during Sunday night’s game against the Seahawks, which occurred in the first quarter without any penalty being called at the time.
Earlier this season, Luvu faced fines of $23,186 for a hip-drop tackle committed in Week 4 against the Falcons, and $46,372 for a similar infraction in a Monday night game against the Chiefs. The NFL’s rulebook clearly outlines the criteria for a hip-drop tackle, specifying that a foul occurs when a player employs this technique to bring down a runner by grasping them with both hands or arms and then dropping their hips, thereby landing on or trapping the runner’s leg(s) at or below the knee.
As a result of the suspension, Luvu will be unavailable for the upcoming game against the Lions, unless he successfully appeals the decision. The appeal will be reviewed by one of the NFL’s appointed hearing officers—Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster, or Jordy Nelson—who are responsible for adjudicating matters of on-field discipline.
This incident underscores the NFL’s ongoing efforts to prioritize player safety by penalizing potentially harmful tackling methods. The league aims to reduce injuries associated with hip-drop tackles, illustrating its commitment to maintaining a safer playing environment for all athletes involved.