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NFL Suspends Commanders LB Frankie Luvu One Game for Repeated Hip-Drop Tackles

The decision represents the first suspension under the hip-drop ban with an appeal pending.

Overview

  • The league cited a first-quarter tackle on Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba as a violation of Rule 12, Section 2, Article 18, marking Luvu’s third such infraction this season.
  • Luvu was previously fined for hip-drop tackles in Weeks 4 and 8, and none of the plays drew a flag during the games.
  • He has filed an appeal; if the suspension stands, he forfeits about $508,333 and would miss Washington’s Week 10 game against the Lions, with eligibility to return the next day.
  • Reporters note it is believed to be the first suspension issued for a hip-drop since owners outlawed the technique in 2024 based on elevated lower-extremity injury risk.
  • The suspension lands as Washington copes with major injuries, including Jayden Daniels’ dislocated elbow and Marshon Lattimore’s torn ACL.