Football is a game characterized by precise measurements and stringent safety regulations. Officials must constantly monitor how different American football positions interact at the line of scrimmage. They search for high-impact contact that transcends the boundary into dangerous territory. The chop block is one of the most controversial infractions in the NFL, NCAA, and high school leagues.
Coaches once used the chop block as a staple of the “West Coast Offense.” Teams relied on it during complex zone-blocking schemes to neutralize larger defenders. However, leagues have systematically phased it out because it destroys player longevity. This guide explores the technical details of the chop block and why it carries a heavy 15-yard penalty in modern sports.
What Is the Technical Definition of a Chop Block?
To understand a chop block, you must first understand “high-low” engagement. A chop block occurs when two offensive players team up against one defensive player in a specific way.
The foul happens when one offensive player engages a defender “high” (at or above the waist). Simultaneously, a second teammate blocks that same defender “low” (at or below the thigh). This combination creates a dangerous “trapping” effect.
How Does the “Engagement” Factor Affect Official Rulings?
Officials only call a chop block if the defender is already “engaged” with the first blocker. In this state, the defender is actively grappling or pushing. The defender’s attention and physical leverage are focused entirely upward. When the second blocker “chops” the legs, the defender cannot protect their lower body. Such behavior creates a hinge effect that causes severe orthopedic trauma.
Why Did the NFL Officially Ban the Chop Block?
The NFL’s rule changes reflect a growing commitment to player safety. The league faced years of scrutiny regarding long-term athlete health. Consequently, the rulebook evolved to remove predatory tactics that target vulnerable joints.
When Did the 2016 Total Ban Take Effect?
Before 2016, the NFL allowed certain versions of the chop block. For decades, players could use it on specific running plays. Coaches argued that smaller offensive linemen needed this tool to stop massive defensive tackles.
However, during the 2016 NFL Annual League Meeting, team owners voted unanimously to ban the move. They realized no strategy justifies the risk of career-ending knee injuries. Today, the ban applies to every play on the field.
How Do Collegiate and Youth Leagues Handle This Rule?
The NCAA actually restricted chop blocks as early as 1980, moving faster than the NFL. Today, youth leagues follow a zero-tolerance policy. Coaches at the high school level teach players to stay high when in doubt. Younger players have developing bodies that are more susceptible to permanent ligament damage.
What Is the Difference Between a Chop Block and a Cut Block?
Casual fans often confuse the Chop Block (Illegal) with the Cut Block (Legal). Understanding the difference is vital for any player or spectator.
How Is the Legal Cut Block Performed?
A cut block is a solo maneuver. One offensive player dives at the knees or shins of a defender to take them off their feet.
- Why it is legal: The defender can see the solo blocker coming. They can use their hands to push the blocker down or sidestep the contact entirely.
- Where it is used: Linemen use this technique on the backside of zone runs. It also helps during quick three-step drop passes to get a defender’s hands down.
Why Is the Tandem Block Deemed Illegal?
The presence of the second player makes the chop block illegal. When a defender is already busy with a high block, they are “trapped.” They cannot defend against the low hit. Because of this predatory nature, officials consistently flag the play.
| Metric | Cut Block | Chop Block |
|---|---|---|
| Players Involved | 1 Blocker | 2 Blockers |
| Visibility | Frontal and Anticipated | Blindside and Trapped |
| Penalty Status | Legal in certain zones | Always Illegal |
What Types of Chop Blocks Are Most Common?
The NFL rulebook identifies several ways this foul can happen. Officials watch for these specific scenarios during every snap.
How Does the Interior Line Chop Occur?
This usually happens between a Guard and a Center. The Center snaps the ball and engages the Defensive Tackle’s chest. Suddenly, the Guard pulls or lunges into the Tackle’s thighs. This type of tackle is the most common chop block in the “trenches.”
Who Can Commit a Chop Block Outside the Tackle Box?
Skilled players like Wide Receivers, Tight Ends, and Running Backs can also commit this foul.
- Example: A Tight End blocks a Defensive End high. A Running Back sees the defender getting close to the Quarterback. If the Back chops the defender’s legs while the Tight End remains engaged, the referee will signal a 15-yard penalty.
Why Is the Chop Block Considered a “Career Killer” in Sports Medicine?
From a medical standpoint, the high-low block is lethal. It compromises the entire skeletal structure of the leg.
What Happens to the ACL and MCL During a Chop?
A high block pushes the defender’s center of gravity backward. Meanwhile, the low block acts as a fulcrum. If the defender has their cleats firmly planted in the turf, the knee joint absorbs all the force.
- Valgus Stress: This force pushes the knee inward while the foot stays stationary. This often results in the “Unhappy Triad” – a simultaneous tear of the ACL, MCL, and Meniscus.
- Recovery: These injuries require reconstructive surgery. Most athletes face 9-12 months of intense rehabilitation. Some never regain their original speed or agility.
How Do Officials Signal and Penalize This Infraction?
When an official spots a chop block, they follow a strict protocol to notify the teams and the crowd.
What Is the Universal Hand Signal for a Chop Block?
The official drops their arms to their sides. They perform a “chopping” motion against their outer thighs with their palms. This signal tells the stadium exactly why the play is dead and the ball is moving backward.
How Many Yards Is the Chop Block Penalty?
Leagues categorize the chop block under Unnecessary Roughness.
- Yardage: The offense loses 15 yards.
- Down Status: The offense usually replays the down. If they were at 2nd & 10, the next play would be at 2nd & 25.
- Automatic First Down: If a defender commits a chop block during a turnover, the offense receives an automatic first down.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blocking Rules
Who Can Commit a Chop Block Besides Linemen?
Offensive players commit nearly all chop blocks. However, a defender can also receive a flag. This happens if they double-team an offensive player in a high-low fashion during a fumble or interception return.
Is a Crackback Block the Same as a Chop Block?
No. A crackback block happens when a player moves back toward the ball to block. It is only illegal if it is “low.” It only becomes a chop block if a second player is already engaging that same defender high.
Why Do Professional Teams Still Risk This Penalty?
Most modern chop blocks are accidents. In the chaos of the A-gap, a guard might dive at a blitzing linebacker. If the center happens to grab that same linebacker high at the same moment, the flag comes out. Officials do not care about intent; they care about the result.
What are the penalties for executing a chop block?
In the NFL and most college leagues, a chop block results in a 15-yard penalty. Penalties may vary in other leagues and levels of play.
How can players protect themselves against potential chop blocks?
Players can stay alert, maintain a wide base, use their hands effectively to fend off blockers, and practice quick lateral movements to avoid low blocks. Proper training and awareness are key to protection.
Why were chop blocks ever allowed in football?
Chop blocks were initially considered an effective strategy, particularly for smaller offensive linemen to neutralize larger defenders. However, as awareness of player safety increased, rules against chop blocks were implemented.
How This Rule Protects the Future of the Game
The total ban on the chop block proves the NFL’s commitment to safety. Some critics argued the ban would hurt the running game. Instead, the modern NFL has seen record-breaking rushing totals.
Players and coaches must remember one simple rule: Keep your blocks 1-on-1 if you are going low. Following this rule protects the game’s integrity and ensures athletes can enjoy long, healthy careers.
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