NFL will discuss ways to expand protection for quarterbacks

The NFL’s competition committee will discuss ways to expand low hit protection for quarterbacks in the pocket, league executive vice president Troy Vincent said Monday.

The NFL’s competition committee will discuss ways to expand low hit protection for quarterbacks in the pocket, league executive vice president Troy Vincent said Monday.

Meetings will take place this week as the committee re-examines its current rules and policies.

In a tweet on Monday, Vincent cited a low hit to Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill after he had released a pass as an example of what might be discussed. 

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In recent years, the NFL has stepped up its efforts to protect quarterbacks from injury, including on low hits. The league may consider harsher penalties for defenders who hit at or below the knee.

– Kenny Ducey