Controversial Call Highlights NFL’s Roughing the Passer Debate

The Miami Dolphins have started the season without a win, adding to their challenges as they remain the NFL’s only team yet to record a sack. This situation intensified with a controversial decision during their recent game.

On Sunday, the Dolphins believed edge rusher Chop Robinson pushed Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes to throw an incomplete pass in the fourth quarter. However, officials viewed Robinson’s actions differently, penalizing him for roughing the passer when he landed on Mahomes without sufficient effort to avoid an impact.

The specific rule on ‘stuffing’ appears in the NFL rulebook, which seeks to protect quarterbacks from being driven into the ground. Although this penalty did not alter the game’s outcome due to another penalty against the Dolphins, it highlighted broader concerns about player protection and officials’ judgments.

After the game, both Mahomes and Robinson reflected on the incident. Mahomes acknowledged the hit as part of the game, while Robinson considered how he could better comply with rules that require defensive players to avoid landing on quarterbacks, as specified in NFL Rule 12.

This rule outlines that defenders must not apply unnecessary force on a quarterback in a passing posture. The referee has the authority to assess whether a defensive player executed excessive force.

Miami Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks expressed frustration over the challenge defenders face; stopping mid-air is physically impossible, especially for larger players. The NFL suggests that defenders cushion their falls with their hands and arms to demonstrate a lack of violent intent.

Robinson tried following this advice, but the referee still deemed his actions inappropriate, continuing the discussion on whether the rule needs further refinement.

Follow Armando Salguero on X: @ArmandoSalguero. Armando Salguero is OutKick’s Senior NFL Writer.