Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu caught a massive break by avoiding suspension for repeated violations of the hip-drop tackle. NFL and NFLPA jointly appointed hearing officer Derrick Brooks reduced Luvu’s one-game suspension to a $100,000 fine. As a result, Luvu is eligible to play on Sunday against the Detroit Lions.
Luvu was previously fined in Week 4 and Week 8 for his hip-drop tackles on Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Noah Gray. The NFL handed a one-game suspension to Luvu after his tackle on Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba in Week 9.
By avoiding suspension, Luvu won’t have to forfeit his game check of over $500,000.
The decision to fine Luvu yet not suspend him is peculiar. Was it a hip-drop tackle? If so, why didn’t the league follow through with a suspension? Apparently, three hip-drop tackles don’t warrant a suspension.
Nonetheless, Luvu gets to play. His presence will be a considerable boost. Injuries on both sides of the football have decimated Washington. The Commanders have lost their top three defensive ends to injured reserve. More recently, the defense lost top cornerback Marshon Lattimore to a torn ACL.
Frankie Luvu gets to play with all eyes on him. In part due to his struggles on the field that has included nine missed tackles. How he tackles will also draw attention. Another takedown that is deemed a hip-drop tackle may lead to a massive penalty in the future.
