Overview
- The NFL deemed a first-quarter tackle on Seattle’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba his third hip-drop of the season, a play not flagged on the field.
- Luvu was previously fined for hip-drop tackles in Weeks 4 and 8, reflecting a progression from fines to a suspension for repeat violations.
- The action is reported to be the league’s first suspension tied specifically to hip-drop infractions since the rule was adopted in 2024.
- If the appeal is denied, Luvu will miss Washington’s Week 10 game against the Lions and forfeit approximately $508,333 in pay.
- The technique was banned after league research showed a far higher injury risk to ballcarriers, with many violations identified on postgame review rather than during games.