Matt LaFleur Stands by “Totally Legal” Low Block on Pat Jones II
Packers coach Matt LaFleur defends a controversial low block that injured Vikings linebacker Pat Jones II during a recent game
Green Bay, Minnesota, NFL, Matt LaFleur, Pat Jones II, Tucker Kraft
Green Bay: So, there was this play on Sunday where Packers tight end Tucker Kraft took out Vikings linebacker Pat Jones II with a low block. It was a tough break for Jones, who ended up with a knee injury and had to leave the game. On Monday, Packers coach Matt LaFleur jumped in to defend the play.
According to LaFleur, it was a “totally legal play.” He explained that it’s just part of the game. He mentioned that if players want to avoid those kinds of blocks, they need to keep their cool and not get too out of control. It’s a strategy to slow down speedy defenders, and he thinks it’s a fair tactic.
LaFleur also pointed out that the Vikings do it too. He recalled a moment when one of their players got hit low, saying, “What are we talking about?” It seems like this kind of play happens on both sides.
The whole thing blew up a bit when Vikings defensive end Jonathan Greenard took to social media, saying Kraft should “be a man and block up high.” He even called for the NFL to get rid of low blocks altogether. But the league has been clear that low blocks are still legal in the tackle box for now.
LaFleur emphasized that they don’t want to hurt anyone. The goal is to slow down the game, and he believes it’s part of coaching to teach players how to handle these situations. Until the NFL decides to ban low blocks completely, what happened to Jones is still within the rules.
On a brighter note for the Vikings, coach Kevin O’Connell mentioned that Jones might have a shot at playing this Sunday against Detroit. Fingers crossed for him!