28 January 2023
Tackling is a fundamental element of the sport in the NFL. It demands high levels of skill, technique, strength, and athleticism to execute correctly. Defensive teams use tackling as an effective way to impede their opponents from advancing upfield and scoring points. But what if you try taking down someone without possession? Can this be done in the NFL? The verdict on that depends on particular circumstances!
The NFL unequivocally prohibits players from tackling an individual who does not possess the ball, which is considered a personal foul and can earn the offending team a penalty. Yet in certain situations, it is permissible to tackle someone that doesn’t have possession of the ball.
If a player is attempting to obstruct an individual from the opposing team’s kick return squad, they can be tackled as long as contact with the blocker’s body instead of their head or neck area occurs. To illustrate this point further, let’s take a look at what happens during a kick-return event.
As an example, when a player is running with the ball and evading a tackler by juking or dodging, they can still be tackled as long they do not resort to illegal techniques such as grabbing the facemask or making contact with their head or neck.
The NFL also permits a tackle on players who do not hold the ball in certain specific cases. For instance, if someone tries to get in the way of a play by obstructing or pushing away another player, they can be tackled as well. This type of occurrence is commonplace during kickoffs and punt returns when teammates try to open up space for the returner’s run.
Even if the rules do not prohibit it explicitly, tackling a player who does not possess the ball can still be penalized. This is because referees have the authority to call out any personal fouls they deem unnecessary or excessively aggressive.
For instance, if a player is sprinting down the field and far outpaces the ball carrier, an official may deem that no tackle is necessary and make note of a personal foul. Similarly, if a player takes another to the ground in an unsafe or potentially damaging manner, they’ll also be charged with a personal foul by officials.
In conclusion, while NFL regulations generally deem tackling a player without the ball illegal, there are exceptions. These include instances where an individual is trying to obstruct or interfere with play, as well as attempting to dodge a tackle. Nevertheless, officials still hold the authority to punish any unnecessary tackles with personal fouls if they believe it was excessively harsh.
Tackling is an essential part of the game of football, and it requires a great deal of skill and technique. Whether you are tackling a player with the ball or trying to bring down a player who does not have possession, it’s important to remember to always play safely and within the rules.
