The Houston Texans’ 19-13 win over the Chicago Bears on Sunday Night Football was marked by high-intensity and physical play. A key moment in the game involved Joe Mixon, who suffered an ankle injury after being subjected to a controversial hip-drop tackle by Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards. Although Mixon managed to return to the field, the tackle has sparked significant discussion among fans and analysts.
The NFL had previously announced plans to ban hip-drop tackles due to their tendency to cause injuries. Despite the league’s stance, no penalty was called on Edwards during the game for this illegal maneuver. However, the NFL is expected to review the incident to determine if any disciplinary action is warranted.
The hip-drop tackle by #Bears LB T.J. Edwards will be reviewed for a possible fine this week. But no call on Sunday night. https://t.co/nMi2U5XMut
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 16, 2024
Mixon expressed his frustration on social media about the NFL’s failure to enforce the new rule effectively. He highlighted the discrepancy between the league’s stated intentions and its on-field enforcement. The incident has intensified calls for the NFL to take stronger measures against hip-drop tackles, which often result in serious injuries, as seen with Mixon’s situation.
Given the mounting pressure, it is likely that Edwards could face a fine or other disciplinary measures. This case is being closely watched as it could establish a precedent for how the NFL handles similar infractions throughout the season. The league’s response to this situation will be critical in shaping its policy on hip-drop tackles and ensuring player safety moving forward.
In summary, while the Texans secured a hard-fought victory, the controversy surrounding Mixon’s injury and the tackle by Edwards underscores ongoing concerns about player safety and the enforcement of new rules in the NFL. The outcome of the NFL’s review will be significant in determining how seriously the league addresses these issues.
