Full Breakdown
Kyle Van Noy Advocates for Change to NFL Intentional Grounding Rule
1/17/2026, 6:54:33 AM
Proposal for Rule Change
Kyle Van Noy, a 34-year-old edge rusher for the Baltimore Ravens, has called for a revision of the NFL's intentional grounding rule. He argues that the current rule unfairly penalizes defenders by not awarding them a sack when a quarterback throws the ball away to avoid being tackled. Van Noy expressed his views on the social media platform X, stating, "One thing the @NFL needs to change back is intentional grounding from a QB should be a sack again! You work so hard as a defender and a QB can just get to throw it away to avoid the sack, taking away money from a defender!"
Understanding the Current Rule
Under the existing rule, intentional grounding occurs when a quarterback, under pressure within the tackle box, throws a forward pass that is not directed toward an eligible receiver. The penalty results in a loss of down and 10 yards from the previous spot. If the grounding occurs in the end zone, it results in a safety. Van Noy's contention is that defenders who force quarterbacks into these situations should receive credit for a sack, particularly since many players have incentive bonuses tied to their sack totals.
Support from Peers
Van Noy's proposal has garnered support from fellow NFL players, including six-time Pro Bowler Eric Weddle, who agreed with his perspective. In response to a question about how to credit sacks when multiple defenders contribute to the intentional grounding, Van Noy suggested that a team sack could be awarded, with the possibility of half sacks for shared efforts. He emphasized the need for a fair assessment of defensive contributions in such scenarios.
Van Noy's Career Context
In the 2023 NFL season, Van Noy recorded two sacks, 20 tackles, and one interception over 15 games. This performance follows a more successful previous season in which he achieved 12.5 sacks and earned a Pro Bowl selection. As he approaches free agency this offseason, Van Noy's advocacy for this rule change may reflect his desire to enhance the recognition and financial rewards for defensive players.
Criticism & Opposition
While Van Noy's proposal has received some backing, there may be differing opinions on the practicality of implementing such a change. Critics could argue that the current rule serves to protect quarterbacks and maintain the pace of the game, and that altering it could complicate the statistics and game dynamics further.
What's Next
As discussions around this rule change continue, it remains to be seen whether the NFL will consider revising the intentional grounding rule in response to player feedback. The outcome could have significant implications for how defensive players are recognized and compensated in the league.