Commanders LB Frankie Luvu becomes first NFL hip-drop suspension

Luvu plans to appeal the suspension. He will be subject to a hearing and decision by league officials, Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster, or Jordy Nelson.

Frankie Luvu’s nightmarish season continues

Monday’s suspension adds to the Commanders’ nightmarish week. Washington lost starting quarterback Jayden Daniels (elbow), cornerback Marshon Lattimore, and wide receiver Luke McCaffrey (collarbone) to potential season-ending injuries in the 38-14 loss to the Seahawks.

Now the team will be without one of its top linebackers. The suspension laminates Luvu’s struggles this season. Luvu had a breakout season in 2024, earning a second-team All-Pro nod. He became a Washington fan favorite. Yet, his second campaign with the Commanders has been less than stellar.

Frankie Luvu has recorded 50 tackles in nine games. However, he has nine missed tackles at a 15.3 percent rate. Last season, he had six missed tackles and a 5.7 percent rate in 17 games.

He’s struggled in pass coverage as well, allowing 13 receptions on 15 targets and a 113.9 passer rating. Bad angles and tackling techniques are factors in his subpar play and repeated hip-drop tackles.

The 29-year-old is in the second year of a three-year, $31 million contract with the Commanders. If the suspension is upheld, he will miss a $508,333 check. Luvu is eligible to return Week 11 against the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, Spain.