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What is a hip drop tackle? Explaining why NFL banned controversial defensive play

Tackling in the NFL looks a bit different than it did last season.

After debate over the past few years on whether the hip-drop tackle should be banned, the league announced in March that it would, in fact, be removing the technique as a legal play. It was one of multiple rule changes that went into effect in the 2024 season.

The change was supported by some players, but it left others -- especially defenders -- confused about what they can and can't do.

The Sporting News has you covered on what exactly a hip-drop tackle is and why the NFL banned a version of it.

What is a hip-drop tackle?

According to a press release from the NFL itself, a hip-drop tackle "occurs when a d

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