(Michael DeMocker)
The chop block is one of the most dangerous plays in football. When a defensive player is already trying to escape a block above the waist, he has no way to protect his legs if another offensive player dives at him.
To the delight of defensive linemen, NFL officials plan to emphasize the foul in games this season, and New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Nick Fairley thinks the focus on the penalty could help his game.
"It gives me better options of getting into the backfield, penetrating more off the backside and coming down the line to make that play in the backfield," he said.