Commanders LB Frankie Luvu suspended for third hip-drop tackle violation

Field Level Media|published: Mon 3rd November, 20:37 2025

Nov 2, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba (11) runs with ball after making a catch defended by Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu (4) during the first quarter at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The NFL announced a one-game suspension for Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu on Monday, following his third recorded hip-drop tackle violation Sunday night against the Seattle Seahawks.

Luvu will be forced to miss the Commanders' next game against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, pending appeal.

The tackle in question occurred midway through the first quarter in Washington's 38-14 loss, as Luvu dragged down Jaxon Smith-Njigba in the open field as three other defenders converged.

Defined in Rule 12, Section 2, Article 18 (a)(b) of the NFL rulebook: "It is a foul if a player uses the following technique to bring a runner to the ground: (a) grabs the runner with one or both hands or wraps the runner with both arms; and (b) unweights himself by swiveling and dropping his hips and/or lower body, landing on and/or trapping the runner's leg(s) at or below the knee."

Luvu was previously fined for hip-drop tackles in Weeks 4 and 8.

An eight-year pro, Luvu is Washington's third-leading tackler this season with 50. He also has two sacks and a forced fumble.

--Field Level Media

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