REPORT: Houston Texans legend JJ Watt’s sarcastic response to latest NFL rule change

The NFL has made the decision to ban the hip-drop tackle starting from the 2024 season. This move has received scrutiny from notable figures like JJ Watt, a respected figure in the Houston Texans’ history, who questioned the rationale behind the league’s latest rule change. The decision was reached during the NFL’s annual meeting on Monday, following concerns raised by the NFL’s Competition Committee regarding the tackle’s higher injury rate compared to conventional tackles. The vote to outlaw the hip-drop tackle was passed unanimously.

The hip-drop tackle is characterized by a player using both hands or arms to bring down a runner and involves unweighting oneself by swiveling and dropping the hips or lower body, potentially trapping the runner’s leg(s) at or below the knee. This action will now be penalized with a loss of 15 yards and an automatic first down.

JJ Watt expressed his thoughts on the vote via social media, suggesting a progression towards flag football rules by sarcastically commenting, “Just fast forward to the belts with flags on them…” on X.

Just fast forward to the belts with flags on them… https://t.co/yToh5XKVMS

— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) March 25, 2024

Former Denver Broncos safety TJ Ward also shared his perspective on the matter, advising defensive players to prioritize the safety of offensive players on the field, even if it means putting their own well-being at risk. He criticized the new rules, suggesting that they contribute to offensive players breaking records and labeling them as a joke.

In contrast, NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent supported the decision to ban the hip-drop tackle. He emphasized the importance of durability and availability for athletes, highlighting that a tackle with a significantly higher injury rate hinders players from realizing their aspirations. Vincent emphasized the need to address such plays to ensure the safety and longevity of athletes’ careers.