Commanders LB Frankie Luvu To Appeal Suspension For Hip-Drop Tackle

Published: Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 1:05 am

Commanders LB Frankie Luvu Appeals Suspension for Hip-Drop Tackle

Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu is appealing a one-game suspension imposed by the NFL for repeated violations of player safety rules, specifically related to the hip-drop tackle. The suspension, announced on Saturday, follows a $46,372 fine for a hip-drop tackle against Kansas City Chiefs tight end Noah Gray.

The hip-drop tackle, which involves a defender wrapping a ball carrier and rotating or swiveling their hips, unweighting themselves and dropping onto the ball carrier's legs, was banned by the NFL in March 2024. Luvu's appeal is based on the fact that he believes he is the first player to be suspended for this type of tackle since the rule was implemented.

This season, Luvu has been fined three times for hip-drop tackles, though none of those plays resulted in a penalty flag during the games. He was previously fined $23,186 for a Week 4 tackle against Michael Penix Jr., and $16,883 for a tackle against Jahmyr Gibbs in last season's playoff game.

The potential loss of Luvu for the upcoming game against the Detroit Lions adds to the Commanders' woes, as the team is already dealing with significant injuries to key players like Jayden Daniels, Luke McCaffrey, and Marshon Lattimore. Luvu currently has the third most tackles on the team with 50 tackles, while also having a forced fumble. If the suspension stands, Luvu would be eligible to return to play on November 10th.

The NFL's stance on the hip-drop tackle is clear, with the league actively seeking to eliminate the play from the game. While the enforcement of the rule has been inconsistent, the suspension could signal a more aggressive approach to player safety.

BNN's Perspective: The NFL's commitment to player safety is paramount, and the ban on the hip-drop tackle is a positive step. However, the league must also ensure consistent and fair enforcement of the rule. While the intent of the suspension is understandable, the lack of in-game penalties for Luvu's previous infractions raises questions about the clarity of the rule's application. A balance must be struck between protecting players and allowing for the natural physicality of the game.

Keywords: Frankie Luvu, Washington Commanders, NFL, hip-drop tackle, suspension, appeal, player safety, fine, Noah Gray, Kansas City Chiefs, injuries, Detroit Lions, Jayden Daniels, Luke McCaffrey, Marshon Lattimore, football, sports

Full Story