Linebacker Frankie Luvu of the Washington Commanders was suspended for several violations of player safety regulations. However, following an appeal, this suspension has now been lifted.

Frankie Luvu, linebacker for the Washington Commanders, has avoided a one-game suspension. Independent hearing officer Derrick Brooks has overturned the penalty imposed by the NFL and instead imposed a fine of $100,000.

The reason for the original suspension was several violations of the rule prohibiting hip drop tackles. Luvu had received a $23,186 fine in Week 4 against the Atlanta Falcons, followed by a $46,372 fine in Week 8 against the Kansas City Chiefs.
The third violation occurred recently against the Seattle Seahawks, prompting the league to impose a one-game suspension.

However, Brooks, who is appointed and paid by the NFL and the NFLPA players’ union as one of three hearing officers, ruled that three violations were not sufficient to justify a suspension.

Instead, the principle of progressive discipline applies, which starts with increasing penalties. The lifting of the suspension saves Luvu more than $400,000, as missing one game would have cost him $508,333 in salary. The NFL has introduced stricter rules against hip-drop tackles this season to prevent injuries.