What is a horse collar tackle?

A horse collar tackle is a type of illegal tackle in American football where a defender grabs the inside of an opponent's shoulder pads or jersey around the neck area and pulls them down to the ground. This type of tackle can be extremely dangerous as it can put significant strain on the player's neck and spine, increasing the risk of serious injury, such as whiplash, spinal cord injuries, or even paralysis.

In order to protect players from the dangers of horse collar tackles, the NFL and other football organizations have implemented strict rules and penalties to discourage this type of tackling technique. Penalties for a horse collar tackle typically include a 15-yard personal foul penalty and possible fines or suspensions for repeat offenders.

It is important for players to be mindful of the rules and to tackle opponents in a safe and legal manner to prevent unnecessary injuries on the field.