Frankie Luvu Suspended for Hip-Drop Tackles by Commanders

Frankie Luvu, a linebacker for the Washington Commanders, faces a one-game suspension without pay due to repeated violations of the NFL’s hip-drop tackle rule. This decision marks a significant moment as Luvu becomes the first player to be suspended for this specific infraction.

Details of the Suspension

The suspension resulted from Luvu’s actions during a game against the Seattle Seahawks, where he was penalized for a hip-drop tackle on wide receiver Jackson Smith-Njigba. This incident occurred in the first quarter of a match that the Commanders lost 38-14.

Previous Violations and Fines

• Luvu has previously been fined for hip-drop tackles after Week 4 and Week 8.
• His fines include $23,186 for the Week 4 incident and $46,372 for the Week 8 incident.

As a result of the current suspension, Luvu stands to lose over $508,000 in game checks. He intends to appeal the ruling, which, if unsuccessful, will force him to miss an upcoming home game against the Detroit Lions.

Impact on the Team

Luvu’s absence from the field adds to the challenges facing the Commanders. The team has recently struggled, losing four consecutive games, with the last three losses totaling a staggering 67-point deficit.

Injury Concerns

The Commanders are already dealing with multiple injuries. Starting cornerback Marshon Lattimore suffered a season-ending torn ACL in the game against the Seahawks. Additionally, three more defensive starters are currently on injured reserve: safety Will Harris and defensive ends Deatrich Wise Jr. and Dorance Armstrong.

NFL Policy on Hip-Drop Tackles

The NFL has implemented a strict policy against hip-drop tackles to enhance player safety. According to the league, this rule is violated when a player uses a tackle technique that involves:

• Grabbing or wrapping the runner with one or both arms.
• Unweighting himself by swiveling or dropping his hips and/or lower body.
• Landing on or trapping the runner’s legs at or below the knee.

This policy aims to protect the health and safety of all players involved in the game, underlining the NFL’s commitment to minimizing injuries during tackles.

If Luvu’s appeal is unsuccessful, he is expected to return when the Commanders face the Miami Dolphins in Madrid the following week. The team will need to rally and find ways to build momentum in his absence, aiming to end their losing streak.