In a turn of events, Rhamondre Stevenson, a running back with the Patriots was forced out by a hip-drop tackle. That incident occurred during last weekend’s games and will keep Stevenson out of play as it takes “a few weeks” to heal.
Unpacking the ‘Hip-Drop Tackle’: A Thing of concern in the NFL
In general, the term “hip-drop tackle” is quite recent when it comes to NFL conversations and has yet to be assigned official meaning. In this type of tackle, which is also associated with Rhamondre Stevenson injury, one of the defenders follows and covers the opponent before they fall on them usually on their legs. “Dead weight” will be used with purpose of tackling the opponent.
Victims added on the list of Hip-drop Tackle that caused the Rhamondre Stevenson Injury
The hip-drop tackle has claimed many players, and Stevenson is not the first victim of these moves. This approach has led to injury for many players among them the Ravens tight end Mark Andrews’s ankle injury and fractured fibula was potentially his Season ender. This tackling style generates much heated debate concerning its safety for players and whether the NFL should adopt certain measures.
Rhamondre Stevenson Injury : NFL’s Stance on the ‘Hip-Drop’: Contemplating a Ban
The NFL is paying attention to the issue regarding hip-drop tackles. Rich McKay, who is chairman of the NFL competition committee has stated that it is similar to the horse-collar tackle. Another NFL executive, Jeff Miller also noted that such tackles make players almost 25 as likely to suffer injuries as any other technique of tackling.
Currently, the league has been amassing more data on hip-drop tackles to determine if there may be a new ban for next season. Some key executives from within the NFL are pushing for its removal as it prioritizes player welfare.
Rhamondre Stevenson Injury : Impact on Patriots
The absence of Stevenson as a result of ankle injury in the Patriots line-up creates a vacuum. In addition, veteran Ezekiel Elliott should be prepared to fill in for Stevenson and become the main man as the Patriots get ready to go up against the Steelers tomorrow. Elliot was sympathetic towards Stephenson as he had played an important role in helping pass and run in the team’s success.
Bailey Zappe’s Limited Options: The Patriots have been piling up Injured Players
The situation seems worse for the Patriots as they have some more injuries which include that of Stevenson’s. Quarterback Bailey Zappe looks for a second straight start as his potential receivers are extremely minimal. Zappe cannot rely on Pop Douglas, Kayshon Boutte who has suffered injuries while Devante Parker is nursing an Achilles injury hence his unavailability for playing.
The offense of the Patriots is expected to get worse because Stevenson the team’s leading pass catcher will not be available. However, Stevenson is out with an ankle problem after sustaining it in the hip-drop tackle, leaving the place vacant that will be occupied by Ezekiel Elliott, Ty Montgomery, and Kevin Harris.
NFL Inactives: Patriots Dealing with Multiple Setbacks
In preparation for a game against the Steelers, important players will not be available for the Patriots. Other inactives besides Stevenson are Shaun Wade, JaMycal Hasty, and Vederian Lowe. While the absence of some important players makes this a critical point in the season for the Patriots, it also poses serious difficulties for them.
Conclusion: A Crisis Point in Player Safety Within the NFL
Discussion on Safety of players in the NFL has been sparked by the Rhamondre Stevenson Injury of his ankle. However, the league is in debate over whether or not to prohibit the controversial hip-drop tackle. With the injuries of Stevenson and other key players for The Patriots the issue of providing security in the field remains a challenge for the league. Of cause the next decisions on tackling techniques will surely give vision to a new landscape of tennis including fair competition and player safety.
