Not too long ago, on a routine episode of the Let’s Go podcast, 44-year-old Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, shared his views on the evolving nature of the NFL. Brady expressed his opinion that the game has become “softer” compared to the past, attributing it to rule changes aimed at player safety. The NFL GOAT’s opinion might be true, given the recent on-the-field action involving New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley.

It was not the ideal end to 2023 for the RB, who received a $21,855 fine from the league for unnecessary roughness during a play in the team’s December 25 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles. The incident evoked adverse sentiments among many, including former Houston Texans defensive end, James Watt. 

Former Houston Texans defensive end sides with Barkley in recent case of being fined

The incident, in question, occurred when Barkley lowered his head and made contact with an Eagles defender in the second quarter. JJ Watt took to Platform X to condemn the league’s decision, stating, “First, running backs get crushed in contract negotiations. Now they can’t even play their position without risking fines.” He expressed worries about a player’s ability to perform at their best when constrained by the fear of penalties or injuries, questioning how they can effectively run between the tackles and protect themselves. 

Football is a full-contact game in its essence, and though urging player safety is crucial, too many restrictions only kill the spirit of the game, per the analysts of the sport. Although not penalized during the game, the league’s focus on player safety led to Barkley’s fine, reflecting efforts to discourage players from using their helmets as weapons. Despite Barkley’s intent to push the pile, the league reviews such plays and imposes fines for potential safety concerns.

NFL and its safety protocols 

The NFL remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing player health and safety across all levels of the sport, from professional athletes to newcomers. Significant strides have been achieved through rule changes, equipment innovations, improved medical protocols, and revised teaching methods. 

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The NFL’s Play Smart. Play Safe. initiative is committed to preventing, diagnosing, and treating head injuries while improving medical procedures for a safer game. Through a significant financial commitment, including an extra $100 million for independent research and engineering advancements, the NFL seeks to tackle health challenges and provide valuable information to both players and the public.

Maintaining transparency, the league shares new insights to enhance awareness and understanding of these critical health issues. It also emphasizes the growing concerns on the field due to various plays, hence the urge to put the hip drop tackle and endzone play rule on a ban list, creating a sense of safety for the players overall.

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