The NFL and NFL Players Association are changing how they handle some of the league's most dangerous plays, with repeat violations now carrying an automatic suspension.
As Adam Schefter shared on X
, the NFL and NFLPA agreed to place greater emphasis on five player-safety violations beginning with the 2026 season: hip-drop tackles, horse-collar tackles, launching, hits on defenseless players, and blindside blocks.Under the new system, a player who commits three violations across those categories during a season will receive a one-game suspension.
The league also offers an incentive for players who avoid becoming repeat offenders. A player who commits only one violation can receive 50% of the fine back at the end of the season. The league and union
said players will begin 2026 with a clean slate, although violations can carry over into future seasons.
The changes don't stop with the players. Coaches will be required to meet with players who approach the suspension threshold, while teams with an excessive number of health and safety violations could face increased financial penalties.
The appeals process is also getting another notable name. Former NFL player and head coach Ron Rivera will join the group of former players who will hear appeals involving on-field discipline.
The NFL and NFLPA described the changes as an attempt to distinguish isolated mistakes from repeated techniques that create a greater injury risk. For players, the message entering 2026 is clear: repeated violations of the league's most significant safety rules can now cost them playing time.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: NFL, NFLPA agree to tougher discipline for player safety violations
