Polamalu, unhappy with the increasing number of fines for what he says are nefarious infractions that weren't penalized, is complaining the over-the-top enforcement of contact-related rules is taking away what makes the sport so popular.

"It's becoming more and more flag football, two-hand touch," said Polamalu, the Pittsburgh Steelers' four-time Pro Bowl safety. "We've really lost the essence of what real American football is about. They're not really concerned about safety, because people have been doing this for ... quite a few decades."

The NFL, concerned the ever-increasing size and strength of players may be heightening the risk of serious injuries, is strictly enforcing all contact rules, especially those involving quarterbacks and helmet-to-helmet hits.

In a Sept. 17 letter to players, the NFL emphasized it would monitor "illegal and dangerous hits" in an effort to protect players.

Polamalu believes the restrictive rule enforcement might be making defensive players hesitant because they are worried a routine tackle will result in a major fine.

"You've got to figure out how to tackle people a new way. ... It's too much," he said.

Polamalu also wonders if physical players who once starred in the league, such as Dick Butkus, Jack Lambert, Mean Joe Greene, Ronnie Lott and Jack Tatum, could play in the NFL today.

Pittsburgh Steelers News News » To Steelers' Polamalu, NFL now 'flag football'
To Steelers' Polamalu, NFL now 'flag football'
PITTSBURGH (AP) - Troy Polamalu wishes someone would put the football back into the National Football League. NFL Blitz Can't get enough NFL? We've got everything you need for Week 7. Check out the NFL Blitz, where we count down all the games from the worst to the best.