Football Illegal Cut Block Penalty

Certain types of blocks in American football have very specific regulations. Rules for blocking are intended to make the game less dangerous for all players on the field. Learn about the illegal cut block penalty here.

Definition

It is common for players, specifically offensive lineman, to block below the waist as the play starts. When offensive lineman do this, it is called a cut block. In football, cut blocks are legal in some situations and illegal in others.

An illegal cut block penalty occurs when:

• An eligible receiver lined up more than two yards from the offensive tackle is blocked below the waist.
• A receiver lined up within two yards of the offensive tackle is blocked below the waist when positioned beyond the line of scrimmage (it is legal on or behind the line of scrimmage). 
• Executed after a change of possession.
• Executed by either team during a kick return.

Although cut blocks result in a penalty in the above circumstances, they can be used legally in other scenarios. For example, restrictions on cut blocks end once the quarterback shows no further intent to pass the ball by executing a handoff, making a pass, or running the ball themselves, allowing cut blocks to be used legally.

When the official sees this penalty occur, they will throw the flag and the penalty is assessed from the spot of the foul at the end of the play.

Result

The illegal cut penalty looks different across several leagues. For example, in the NFL, cut blocks are common when plays are on the perimeter of the field. Often, lineman will pull out in front of the ball carrier and execute cut blocks downfield. Skill position players may cut block as well.

In college, players may not block below the waist unless they are offensive linemen that are initially lined up inside of the tackle box. Additionally, in college, once the ball has left the tackle box and gets to the perimeter, players can no longer perform a cut block.

In the Canadian Football League, it is illegal for players to block below the waist on any plays involving kicking or a turnover. Players may not block below the waist more than three yards outside of the tackle box or five yards downfield.

In NFHS (high school football), players are not allowed to cut block at all. This ruling exists because there is an increased effort to minimize risk of injury especially in sports played by young people. As such, multiple types of blocking, including cut blocking, are banned in high school football even if they are allowed in higher levels of play.

Penalty Signal

When a player illegally blocks below the waist, the referee will throw a flag and signal the penalty after the play by striking the front of their thighs, as illustrated.

Examples

• An offensive lineman going farther than five yards downfield and executing a block below the waist.
• An offensive lineman starting to block above the waist and then blocking below the waist. This is often called a “high-low.”
• A wide receiver blocking a defender below the waist.

Similar Penalties To Illegal Cut Block

• Clipping
• Illegal Crack Back Block
• Defensive Holding

FAQ