The Chicago Bears got a big win over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 6 as Caleb Williams returned to game action following a three-game absence due to a hamstring injury.
They could see the NFL take action over a hit Williams took during the contest this week, too.
During the second quarter, on a first-and-10 from the Bears 44-yard line with Chicago leading 14-0, Williams attempted a pass to tight end Cole Kmet. It fell incomplete, but officials flagged former Bears defensive tackle LaCale London for roughing the passer.
That gave the Bears 15 free yards and a fresh set of downs to work with. Nothing came of the drive, which ended in a missed field goal attempt from Cairo Santos.
The play could result in a fine for London.
Hit on Bears Caleb Williams Could Draw NFL Attention
NFL Could Target Bears Teammate in Addition to Hit on Caleb Williams
Per the NFL, fines for roughing the passer can reach $17,911 on first-time infractions and up to $23,882 for second offenses. The NFL issues fines at its discretion, so the amount could fall with those ranges or even beyond.
That is, assuming the NFL does issue a fine for the play. That is also not guaranteed even with little doubts about the incident.
The NFL also figures to come after one of Williams’ teammates this week.
The hit on Williams helped the Bears, but teammate Jahdae Walker is as likely if not more so to hear from the NFL this week.
During the fourth quarter, with the Bears up 31-7, officials flagged Walker for headbutting Falcons wide receiver Chris Blair. Moreover, Walker was ejected from the contest, which saw the Falcons make a furious rally.
Illegal use of the helmet can draw fines up to $23,882 for first offenses and $47,762 after.
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw was suspended for one game after he headbutted Seattle Seahawks counterpart Earnest Jones, who was not wearing a helmet and was standing on his team’s sideline, in Week 4.
However, the NFL issued a $7,073 fine for Cincinnati Bengals tight end Erick All for a similar incident in Week 5.
Leave a Reply