It's a tough pill to swallow when a player's season ends due to a play deemed 'rough,' especially when the penalty seems to barely scratch the surface of the damage. In a recent NFL development, Raiders' Tristin McCollum was fined for a hit that resulted in Colts' Spencer Shrader's season-ending injuries.
On Sunday, during an extra point attempt, Raiders safety Tristin McCollum made contact with Colts kicker Spencer Shrader's kicking leg. The result? ACL and MCL injuries, effectively sidelining Shrader for the remainder of the season. McCollum was penalized for roughing the kicker.
Now, here's where the story takes a turn. The NFL has levied a fine of just $5,722 against McCollum for the infraction.
But here's where it gets controversial... Considering the severity of the injury, the clear personal foul, and the season-altering consequences for Shrader, the fine seems...light. For context, NFL players often face heftier fines for celebratory actions.
McCollum wasn't alone in receiving a fine for roughing the kicker this week. Marlowe Wax of the Chargers was also penalized, facing a fine of $4,672 for a similar offense.
What are your thoughts? Do you believe the fines accurately reflect the severity of the actions, or should the NFL consider a more significant penalty for plays that lead to season-ending injuries? Share your opinions in the comments below!