Ravens’ Kyle Van Noy seeks to change the intentional grounding rule in the NFL

Baltimore Ravens’ Kyle Van Noy Advocates for Change in NFL Grounding Rules

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Kyle Van Noy is calling for the NFL to rethink its intentional grounding rules. At 34 years old, Van Noy believes that intentional grounding calls should be credited as sacks for defensive players, arguing that when a quarterback throws the ball away to avoid being sacked, it essentially impacts defenders’ earnings.

In a recent post on social media, he expressed his viewpoint: “What the NFL needs to change is that a QB’s intentional grounding should become a sack again! Working hard as a defender, the QB might end up taking money from the defender by throwing it away to avoid a sack! Change your mind…”

Currently, an intentional grounding call occurs when a quarterback is pressured within the tackle box and throws an incomplete pass that isn’t directed at an eligible receiver. This can happen even if the pass lands in the field of play.

The penalty for intentional grounding results in a loss of down and a ten-yard penalty from the previous spot. Interestingly, if the incident occurs in the end zone, it doesn’t count as a safety.

Van Noy has emphasized that defensive players, specifically edge rushers, deserve recognition for their role in forcing such penalties. Many of them have incentive bonuses tied to their sack counts, making this an important issue for their livelihoods.

In response to Van Noy’s post, six-time Pro Bowler Eric Weddle showed support. Van Noy was later asked how he envisions the NFL should attribute sacks, especially when multiple defenders contribute to creating an intentional grounding situation.

“Great question, Mike… If it’s confusing, three guys should be team sacks, but most of the time you can establish half sacks and full sacks. If not… guys call in and take a deeper look. If two guys are hitting, he should get a half sack. One should get a full sack. I also think they could take out the half sack and give both full sacks, but that’s just me and maybe I’m a little greedy,” Van Noy commented.

As he enters his twelfth season, Van Noy is currently in his second year with the Ravens, having played 15 games this season with two sacks, 20 tackles, and one interception. Last season, he achieved 12.5 sacks and made it to the Pro Bowl. He is expected to be a free agent this offseason.