B/R
Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon addressed the implementation of the NFL’s new hip-drop tackle rule after being injured in his team’s 19-13 win over the Chicago Bears on Sunday.
Early in the third quarter, Mixon was tackled by Bears linebacker TJ Edwards after catching a pass from CJ Stroud. Edwards appeared to use the hip drop tackle to bring down the running back, who had to leave the game briefly due to an ankle injury.
According to NFL Network Tom PelisseroMixon will have an MRI on Monday.
Edwards was not penalized for the play. Mixon claimed in a separate post that he asked for a penalty, but a referee did not believe a hip-drop tackle was applied.
Team owners voted unanimously to eliminate the tackle in March. The league analyzed over 20,000 tackles over the past two seasons and found that the hip drop technique resulted in lower body injuries 20 times more often than other tackles (via NFL.com).
Players have complained about the lack of implementation of the new rule in the game, which has typically resulted in fines. Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase was visibly frustrated during a 26-25 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday because he believed a hip-drop tackle was used.
Several players on the New York Giants defense were penalized for previously using the technique in Week 1. Cornerback Adoree’ Jackson and linebacker Darius Muasau were fined $9,804 and $4,696, respectively, following a loss to the Minnesota Vikings (h/t Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk).
Mixon joined Houston in the offseason and signed a three-year, $27 million contract extension with the organization after being traded to the Bengals. His 2024 debut was impressive, scoring 159 yards and a touchdown on 30 carries in Week 1.
The 28-year-old’s future status is uncertain, but the Texans hope he can return to the field for their Week 3 game against the Vikings.
