Leaping

The leaping is a penalty when the defensive player runs to the offensive side to block the field goal or extra point. Such action is unnecessary roughness if the maneuver happens too early. The referee throws the flag and awards 15 yards of the penalty plus the automatic first down to the guilty team.

This penalty is kicking exclusive. Any attempt to gain the advantage of touching the offensive lineman is unsportsmanlike conduct. Jumps are legal but only clear ones. The referee will throw the flag only if the performer jumps over the opponent or touches with the cleat. The rule has safety concerns. It supposes stopping of those players who jump and becomes too aggressive. The players don’t try to hop, knowing it will be the immediate penalty.

However, each rule has at least one exception. The case of the leap means the stationary position of the leaper waits for the snap stationary one yard from the line of scrimmage, it can do it without consequences. If the defenders stand further, they must avoid collisions or crossing the line of scrimmage.