**Ravens’ Kyle Van Noy Advocates for Change in NFL’s Intentional Grounding Rule**
Kyle Van Noy, the Baltimore Ravens’ standout edge rusher, is calling for a revision to the NFL’s intentional grounding rule. The 34-year-old player believes that intentional grounding should be classified as a sack for the defender who pressures the quarterback into making the throwaway, arguing that the current rule diminishes the financial rewards for defenders.
In a recent post on social media, Van Noy expressed his frustration: “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 throw it away to avoid the sack, taking away money from a defender! Change my mind….”
Currently, intentional grounding is defined as a situation where a quarterback, under pressure within the tackle box and facing a potential loss of yards, throws a forward pass that is not directed toward an eligible receiver. Notably, the pass does not need to be incomplete for the penalty to be enforced. The consequence of intentional grounding is a loss of down and a 10-yard penalty from the previous spot. If the infraction occurs in the end zone, it results in a safety.
Van Noy’s proposal highlights the impact of this rule on edge rushers, many of whom have incentive-based contracts that reward them for recorded sacks. He believes that defenders should receive credit for their role in forcing the quarterback into an intentional grounding situation.
Former Pro Bowler Eric Weddle supported Van Noy’s stance, prompting a discussion about how to fairly award sacks when multiple defenders contribute to the play. Van Noy suggested that if several players are involved, it could be classified as a team sack, while individual contributions could be recognized as half or full sacks depending on the circumstances.
As Van Noy wraps up his 12th NFL season and second with the Ravens, he has recorded two sacks, 20 tackles, and one interception in 15 games. Last season, he achieved 12.5 sacks and earned a Pro Bowl selection. With free agency approaching, his future in the league remains a topic of interest.
In summary, Van Noy’s advocacy for a change in the intentional grounding rule reflects a broader conversation about how the NFL recognizes and rewards defensive players for their contributions on the field.
**FAQ**
**Q: Why does Kyle Van Noy want the intentional grounding rule changed?**
A: Van Noy believes that intentional grounding should count as a sack for defenders, as it would better reflect their efforts in pressuring quarterbacks and ensure they receive appropriate financial recognition for their performance.
