Many of the rule changes that are brought on by the Roger Goodell and the NFL are aimed at creating a higher-scoring and more exciting game, or at protecting “defenseless” quarterbacks and receivers.
This year, the league is considering a rule to actually protect players on defense.
Currently, there is a rule in place that states a player cannot block an opponent in the back of the legs. The proposed rule change would only add two words to that rule – “or side”.
Adding that simple phrase is aimed at preventing defensive players from unexpectedly being blocked or hit on the side of the leg, and consequently, causing his knee to…well, explode.
Some consider this rule to be a long time coming, and have petitioned the league’s competition committee to bring about a change forcing offensive players to only target the midsection when throwing blocks.
Per SI.com, there was a survey conducted among players on 20 NFL teams as to what body part they were most concerned about injuring in a game
The survey revealed that 46% of those players said knees or other parts of their legs — only 24% said they were more concerned about injuries to the head and neck, despite the heavy attention being given to concussions and other traumatic brain injuries.
With the way players are continuing to become bigger and faster, it probably won’t be long before any hitting or blocking below the waist or above the shoulders will be completely illegal.
Owners will vote on the proposed rule change at next week’s league meeting.