NFL Reduces Frankie Luvu’s Suspension to Fine After Third Hip-Drop Tackle

Basio badr

ago 2 hours

Frankie Luvu, linebacker for the Washington Commanders, will be back in action this Sunday against the Detroit Lions. His one-game suspension has been successfully appealed, allowing him to play. The NFL announced this decision on Tuesday.

NFL Reduces Frankie Luvu’s Suspension to Fine

The league initially suspended Luvu for one game without pay due to repeated violations of safety rules. His latest incident occurred during a game where he executed his third hip-drop tackle of the season. This tackle broke the NFL’s regulations aimed at protecting players’ health.

Background on the Suspension

Luvu faced prior fines in Week 4 and Week 8.
The NFL pointed to Rule 12, Section 2, Article 18, which prohibits certain tackling techniques.
This rule states that players cannot drop their hips and land on or trap a runner’s legs below the knees.

Following Luvu’s appeal, the league’s hearing officer Derrick Brooks, appointed by both the NFL and the NFL Players Association, decided to substitute the suspension with a fine of $100,000. This outcome allows Luvu to play, instead of forfeiting his game-day check of approximately $508,833.

Player Performance

Currently in his second season with the Commanders, Luvu has demonstrated his skills as a key player on the defense. In 2024, he participated in all 17 games, accumulating: