A foul called against a player who makes forcible contact against an opponent deemed defenseless by the rules, using the helmet, shoulder, forearm, fist, hand, or elbow to deliver a blow above the opponent’s shoulders, is considered illegal. For example, launching oneself into a receiver who has clearly established position and making contact with the helmet to the head or neck area would likely draw this infraction. This type of foul is often subject to significant penalties, including ejection from the game and potential suspension.
Such rules exist to protect player safety and reduce the risk of serious head and neck injuries. The increasing awareness of long-term health consequences from repeated head trauma has led to stricter enforcement and harsher penalties for these types of fouls. The evolution of these rules reflects a shift in the culture of the sport toward prioritizing player well-being. Preventing these dangerous plays is critical for the integrity and sustainability of the game.
