Does the NFL Have a Targeting Rule?
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In this post, we’ll take a look at the NFL’s targeting rule and see if it’s really as effective as it’s supposed to be.
What is the NFL’s targeting rule?
The National Football League’s (NFL) rule on “targeting” is defined as “illegal personal contact against a player in a defenseless posture.” This includes contact above the shoulders or targeting the head or neck area of a player with the helmet, forearm, hand, fist, elbow or shoulder. If a player is judged to have committed targeting, he will be automatically ejected from the game and will also be subject to a review by the league to determine if he should be suspended for an additional game.
How was the rule created?
The rule was created in 2013 as a way to protect players from dangerous hits to the head and neck area. The rule states that a player cannot “target” another player with the intent to injure him. If a player is found to have committed this act, he will be automatically ejected from the game and will face a suspension.
The rule has been controversial since its inception, with many players and fans arguing that it is too harsh and does not take into account the context of the hit. However, the NFL has stood by the rule, saying that player safety is their number one priority.
How has the rule been enforced?
The rule has been enforced unevenly, with some hits being penalized and others not, leading to confusion among players, coaches and fans. In 2017, the N.C.A.A. made changes to its rule in an effort to increase consistency in enforcement. But the NFL’s rule has remained largely the same, and critics say it has not been applied consistently.
What are the consequences for violating the rule?
Under the current rules, players who are flagged for targeting are automatically ejected from the game. In addition, the player’s team is assessed a 15-yard penalty. If the infraction occurs in the first half, the player is ineligible to play in the second half. If it happens in the second half or during overtime, the player is ineligible for the remainder of the game and for the first half of his team’s next game.
Are there any exceptions to the rule?
The NFL’s rule on targeting punters and kickers is simple: You can’t hit them in the head or neck, and you can’t use the crown of your helmet to make contact anywhere.
There are a few exceptions to this rule. If a punter or kicker is running with the ball, they are considered a runner and can be hit like any other player. Also, if a returner catches a punt or kickoff in the air and has not had time to tuck the ball away, he can be hit in the head or neck by a defender.
