Some changes to the NFL rulebook that took effect prior to the preseason -- particularly those regarding defenders leading with the helmet and landing with their weight on the quarterback -- have been criticized roundly by those playing the game.
In an Aug. 19 tweet, 49ers defensive back Richard Sherman called the helmet rule "idiotic" and followed with his opinion that it "should be dismissed immediately" after his teammate Raheem Mostert executed a tackle on punt coverage with what appears to be clean form.
Vikings linebacker Antwione Williams was fined more than $20,000 after he sacked Jaguars quarterback Cody Kessler in a recent preseason game.