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"Run It Straight": Dangerous New Rugby League Trend Raises Safety Concerns

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 23rd 2026 at 1:35 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
      Locale: AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND

What is 'Run It Straight'?

The technique itself involves players intentionally charging directly at opposing defenders, foregoing the traditional angles and evasive maneuvers that characterize NRL gameplay. Instead of attempting to evade or sidestep, players employing 'run it straight' aim for a direct, high-impact collision. While seemingly a minor variation in running style, the consequence - particularly when executed with the force and speed characteristic of professional rugby league - is a heightened risk of injury to both the ball carrier and the defender.

Growing Concerns from Experts and Legends

The concerns surrounding 'run it straight' are not new, but the viral Staggs video has amplified the existing anxieties. Veteran NRL player and commentator, Greg Alexander, was particularly vocal, labeling the technique as "very dangerous" and questioning its legality within the sport. Alexander's commentary on Fox League's NRL360 emphasized the alarming nature of the direct head-on impact, stating he had "never seen [such a technique] before." He strongly suggested the NRL should consider prohibiting it.

This sentiment is echoed by another NRL legend, Michael Ennis, who pointed to the potential for devastating consequences, including concussions and spinal damage. Ennis' concern, shared by many within the rugby league community, focuses on the cumulative effect of these repeated, forceful impacts on player health and long-term well-being. The increasing prevalence of this technique isn't confined to the elite level; it's being emulated throughout various grades of the sport, further escalating the risk for younger and developing players.

The NRL's Response (or Lack Thereof)

The NRL has, in the past, acknowledged the broader issue of head-high contact within the game and has implemented rules designed to deter such actions. However, the 'run it straight' technique occupies a grey area. While the direct contact can involve head-high collisions, it isn't always explicitly classified as such under the current rules. This ambiguity allows players to employ the tactic, knowing they are operating within a legal, albeit increasingly contentious, boundary. The lack of a specific rule addressing this particular style of running has frustrated many observers who believe a clear ban is necessary to protect players.

Potential for Rule Changes and Future Implications

The Staggs incident has undoubtedly intensified the pressure on the NRL to take decisive action. While a complete ban on 'run it straight' could significantly alter the game's dynamics and possibly lead to strategic adjustments by teams, the potential benefits for player safety are clear. Alternative solutions, such as stricter officiating guidelines to penalize forceful head-on contact regardless of the runner's intent, are also being considered.

Beyond the immediate rule changes, this situation highlights a broader challenge facing professional sports: the constant tension between innovation in gameplay and the preservation of athlete health. The rise of 'run it straight' is a testament to players' ingenuity in seeking an advantage, but it also serves as a stark reminder of the need for constant vigilance and adaptation to safeguard the well-being of those participating in the game. The league faces a critical decision: will it prioritize protecting its players or allowing this potentially dangerous trend to continue?