A lot has been said that the Dallas Cowboys are having too many light practices without tackling. In my honest opinion, I see no problem with it.
This year the NFL limited all teams to 80 players on the roster. Previously, teams were able to carry a handful of extra guys because they got exemptions for those who played in the now-defunct NFL Europa.
Is that the reason that some teams are limiting the tackling during training camp practices?
Nothing would be worse for one of the star players on a team to get injured due to a tackling drill during practice or scrimmage. The teams need their players healthy at the start of the season. Since there are fewer players on a team, it would be costly to lose one and then have to search for another player to replace the one that was injured.
I want the practices to be physical and demanding, but I also want them devoid of injury risk.
Now, for the opposite side of the argument. Players have to practice proper tackling skills so they can tackle correctly in a game. If you don't do it in practice, it makes it harder during the game. Also, the players should be in shape and be able to handle being hit and tackled. Case in point, Roy Williams sure could use some tackling practice. He knew how to tackle before; what happened? Why did he start doing this horse-collar tackle?
They are professionals and in shape. Let them hit!
OK, I believe that if a player is still struggling at this point in their football lives at tackling and needs more practice at it, shouldn't even be on the field anymore. I played football in high school, and even back then, they taught me how to tackle right. I'm sure they learned that as well.
I think this new 80-player limit has affected how coaches practice. I am sure you have already heard of some injuries occuring in the league. I know you wouldn't want to hear that your best player was injured due to tackling in practice.
Are 80-Man NFL Rosters Keeping Teams From Tackling in Practice?
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