NFL fines three players for helmet-to-helmet hits
The NFL promised swift action in the wake of several vicious, helmet-to-helmet hits in Sunday's games, and Tuesday announced it had fined three players a total of $175,000. The league stopped short of issuing any suspensions but indicated that similar plays in the future would be met with escalating punishment, including suspensions.
Steelers linebacker James Harrison was fined $75,000, and Patriots safety Brandon Meriweather and Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson $50,000 each.
Anderson said the league would not re-examine hits prior to Week 6, but that from now on players would be subject to increased scrutiny over illegal hits.
"Everyone should be on notice," Anderson said. "The line is clear."
Harrison was fined for his hit on Browns receiver Mohamed Massaquoi, who suffered a concussion on the play. Harrison was fined a higher amount because he was fined $5,000 for unnecessary roughness against Titans quarterback Vince Young in a Sept. 19 game. Harrison plans to appeal the most recent fine.
Harrison was not fined for his hit on Browns running back Joshua Cribbs, who also suffered a concussion.
Robinson, who also plans to appeal, was sanctioned for his helmet-to-helmet hit on Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson. Jackson suffered what is being termed a severe concussion and is likely to miss playing time. Robinson also suffered a concussion on the play; his playing status this week is uncertain.
In a statement released by his agent, Robinson said: "I am disappointed by the NFL's ruling. I recognize the goal is to protect all players - from the Pee Wee level on up - however, this was a bang-bang hit situation where I did not lead with my helmet, and therefore I will appeal.
"Although it was a violent hit, my hit did not violate the NFL's rules, and I was playing the game the way I always have. I am not a dirty player and have never been characterized as one."
Meriweather was fined for his hit on Ravens tight end Todd Heap in the Patriots' 23-20 overtime win at Foxborough, Mass. Heap lay on the ground for several minutes and left the game, but returned before halftime. Afterward, he called it "one of those hits that shouldn't happen."
Anderson said the league's response to the hits will have an effect on other levels of football, including youth, high school and the college game. He said he is not concerned about suggestions that the NFL is taking away the physical aspect of the game that many fans find appealing.
"Time has changed,'' he said, "and our emphasis has changed."
Anderson said in a radio interview Tuesday that the league does not need to change any of its rules regarding tackling, but will most rigorously enforce them.
"We need to get our players firmly in line with the current rules," Anderson said. "What we're trying to make sure our players understand is that you should know the rules. The coaches know the rules, the players should know the rules. And so if you are in violations of the rules - particularly one of those trying to protect against head, neck injuries - we're going to hold you to a higher standard."
More football news
