The NFL is tightening the reins on on-field conduct to reduce unnecessary altercations and violence. A prime example occurred during the Week 1 matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens, where Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith was accused of delivering a late hit on quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
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Following the incident, Smith raised his hands in defense, insisting there was no intent to harm. However, Chiefs tight end Peyton Hendershot, who was nearby, retaliated by shoving Smith, escalating tensions on the sideline.
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Post-game, Smith vocally confronted Mahomes about an alleged flop and directed some words towards Hendershot.
#Ravens LB Roquan Smith on #Chiefs TE Peyton Hendershot: “He better watch himself. … I’ll see him when I see him.”
Hendershot shoved Smith after he pushed Patrick Mahomes out of bounds in the 4th quarter. No penalty was called.
pic.twitter.com/zyKin5mkCr— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) September 6, 2024
“Whoever #88 is, he should be careful. … I’ll see him when I see him,” Smith warned, emphasizing his point about how Mahomes’ actions may have influenced the referees’ decisions.
In response to the incident—given Hendershot’s status as an inactive player for the game—the NFL imposed hefty fines: the Chiefs were hit with a $100,000 fine, while Hendershot received a $5,472 penalty.
The NFL fined the #Chiefs organization $100,000 and TE Peyton Hendershot $5,472 for a sideline shove that drew the ire of #Ravens LB Roquan Smith in last week’s kickoff game, per sources.
Hendershot plans to appeal. https://t.co/jFsJjHIAbY
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 14, 2024
As reported by Tom Pelissero, the Chiefs organization is facing a $100,000 fine along with Hendershot’s individual penalty of $5,472, who intends to appeal.
This crackdown aligns with the NFL’s efforts outlined in a memo sent in August regarding player conduct. The memo reminded teams that unnecessary physical contact and abusive behaviors from non-active personnel are strictly prohibited.
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The Chiefs’ $100,000 fine reflects the league’s pursuit of maintaining discipline and order during games, ensuring player safety remains a priority.