Frankie Luvu Says He Feels Targeted After Multiple Hip-Drop Fines

Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu has expressed frustration with how the NFL has penalised him for alleged hip-drop tackles, suggesting the league might be singling him out. After being fined three times this season for the same infraction, Luvu said it feels like the league has placed a “target” on his back.

“I play one way, and that’s fast, physical and downhill,” Luvu said. “That’s the only way I know how to play.” The veteran linebacker made the comments after his one-game suspension was overturned on appeal earlier this week. The decision came as a major relief for Luvu, who described the reversal as “a weight off my shoulders.”

Despite the suspension being dropped, the league still fined him $100,000 for a Week 9 hit on Seattle Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, which the NFL determined met the criteria of a hip-drop tackle. The fine marked Luvu’s third such violation this season, following similar penalties in Weeks 4 and 8.

Luvu’s case was reviewed by hearing officer Derrick Brooks, who rescinded the suspension but upheld the fine. The ruling also spared Luvu from losing a game check worth over $500,000, a significant financial reprieve amid a season already filled with disciplinary scrutiny.

1. Appeal Decision Brings Relief but Raises Questions

While Luvu expressed gratitude for the successful appeal, he made it clear that the league’s disciplinary process has left him confused and frustrated. “It’s definitely a relief,” he said, “but at the same time, I’m still trying to understand what exactly I’m being fined for.” His agent, Blake Baratz, publicly supported the linebacker, saying in a statement that the appeal’s outcome “was the right one.” Baratz emphasised that Luvu plays “with passion, physicality and respect” and has been “a tremendous ambassador for the sport both on and off the field.” For Luvu, the controversy has never been about intent. “I don’t wake up on Sundays thinking I want to hurt someone,” he said. “I respect my peers, I respect the game, and I take pride in my reputation. I just play aggressive football.” The 28-year-old has become one of Washington’s most reliable defenders, known for his high motor and physical presence. However, his style of play has drawn increasing scrutiny as the NFL tightens enforcement of rules meant to reduce lower-body injuries, particularly around the legs and ankles.

2. Confusion Over Hip-Drop Rule

Luvu said part of his frustration stems from what he sees as a lack of clarity in the rule’s definition. “That’s the question I keep asking myself and asking them — what is it?” he said. “It’s frustrating to look at all the plays and still not understand exactly what they’re calling a hip-drop.” The linebacker believes the league itself is still uncertain about the standard. “They’re still trying to figure it out,” he added. “That’s out of my control. I just worry about making tackles and helping my team win.” The hip-drop tackle, which involves a defender wrapping up a ball carrier and dropping his weight to the side, has been increasingly penalised due to its association with injuries. However, many defensive players argue that it’s often unavoidable during fast-moving plays, leading to a growing debate between safety and practicality. For Luvu, the confusion is compounded by how frequently he’s been penalised. “It’s tough when you’re trying to make a clean play, and suddenly it’s flagged,” he said. “You just want consistency.”

3. Feeling Watched Under the League’s Microscope

Luvu admitted he now feels as if officials are paying extra attention to his tackles. “I feel like I’m under the microscope,” he said. “All I can control is how I play and making sure I’m not giving them another reason to throw a fine my way.” The linebacker, who previously made headlines during last year’s NFC Championship Game for jumping the line to stop an Eagles tush push, knows what it’s like to be the centre of officiating attention. That incident led to multiple penalties and further scrutiny of his aggressive defensive approach. Still, Luvu said he refuses to change the essence of how he plays. “I play this game with intensity,” he said. “That’s what got me here, and that’s what my teammates expect of me.” He also took issue with the perception that his repeated fines make him a “dirty player.” “My teammates know who I am,” Luvu said firmly. “I try to play the game the right way. I’m aggressive, sure, but never malicious.” For now, the linebacker’s focus remains on helping Washington rebound in the second half of the season — even as he feels the eyes of the league remain fixed squarely on him.