Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith has been penalized by the NFL for a controversial tackle that resulted in a serious injury to Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin.
As reported, Smith was fined $16,833 for the “hip-drop” tackle that dislocated Godwin’s ankle during their Week 8 matchup. The incident sparked debate among fans and analysts, with some arguing that the play was a clean football move, while others criticized its aggressive nature.
A tweet read,
“The NFL has fined Ravens LB Roquan Smith $16,833 for a “hip-drop” tackle that dislocated Chris Godwin’s ankle, per @AdamSchefter”
The NFL has fined Ravens LB Roquan Smith $16,833 for a “hip-drop” tackle that dislocated Chris Godwin’s ankle, per @AdamSchefter pic.twitter.com/QNY8OCEM4L
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) October 25, 2024
Roquan Smith’s Incident
The tackle occurred during the Ravens’ 41-31 victory over the Buccaneers on October 21, 2024. With 1:04 left in regulation, Smith executed a hip drop tackle on Godwin, who was leading the league with 50 catches. The tackle resulted in Godwin suffering a dislocated left ankle, ending his season.
NFL’s Stance on Hip-Drop Tackles
The NFL has been actively working to eliminate hip-drop tackles due to their high injury rate. The league defines a hip-drop tackle as a defender grabbing or wrapping the runner with both hands or arms, then unweighting himself by swivelling and dropping his hips and/or lower body, landing on and trapping the runner’s leg(s) at or below the knee. The play is subject to a 15-yard penalty and an automatic first down.
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