This year, USA Rugby has released new laws include a change to tackle height for open play. The objective: avoid head-to-head and head-to-shoulder contact occurring between the tackler and ball-carrier during execution of the tackle.

TACKLER: 9.13
A player must not tackle an opponent early, late or dangerously. Dangerous tackling includes, but is not limited to, tackling or attempting to tackle an opponent above the line of the shoulders even if the tackle starts below the line of the shoulders, or tackling or attempting to tackle an opponent above the base of the sternum while either player is running in open field play.

BALL CARRIER: 9.11

Players must not do anything that is reckless or dangerous to others including leading with the elbow or forearm, or jumping into, or over, a tackler, or leading with the head into an opponent while running in open field play.

Breaking It Down‍

The term "open field play" is used in the new law to recognize that body positions of players in rucks and mauls may not be compatible with the height rule. The link below has additional details about this law and various scenarios to expect.

If the ball carrier lowers their body position immediately prior to contact, and the tackler makes contact above the sternum, the tackler will not be penalized. There is no sanction against a ball-carrier in this scenario (unless dangerous). This is considered dangerous if the ball carrier attempts to prevent the tackler from making a legal tackle by bending at the waist and leading with the head into contact in open field play.

In a double tackle, the secondary tackler must also tackle below the ball carrier’s sternum. Players may compete for the ball, and may form a maul.

Other Rule Changes

The updated Game Management Guideline addresses additional rule changes, including new Free Kick laws and Offside's positions.

These new rules also eliminate the Crocodile Roll: Player's must lever the jackler by driving backwards.  No lateral twist, pull or roll.  And still can't drop weight onto or target lower limbs.  This is a penalty.

Explore the guidelines for more details.

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Resources:

Heading into season, it is the responsibility of clubs to prepare their athletes with proper tackle form and the new changes. Read more about this law and stay prepared:
USA Rugby Tackle Height Explained
USA Rugby Game Management Guidelines 2024-2025 Season