Baltimore Ravenslinebacker Roquan Smith has been fined a total of $35,822 by the NFL for two separate violations during last Sunday's 36-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills, including a facemask penalty involving quarterback Josh Allen.
According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, Smith received a $17,911 fine for grabbing Allen's facemask and twisting his head during a touchdown run. The veteran linebacker was assessed an additional $17,911 fine for a hit on a defenseless player during another play in the game.
The disciplinary action comes less than a week after Baltimore suffered its third straight loss to Buffalo, a game in which the Ravens struggled defensively and lost quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley to injuries.
Roquan Smith fined for facemask involving Josh Allen
The most notable incident
occurred during Allen's 1-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, when Smith grabbed the Buffalo quarterback's facemask as he attempted to prevent him from reaching the end zone. Video of the play showed Allen's head being turned as Smith made contact with his facemask. The touchdown stood, and the Bills took an early 7-0 lead.
The incident drew criticism after the game, with questions raised about the lack of an on-field penalty. Buffalo coach Joe Brady later addressed the play, acknowledging he hadn't initially seen the contact but expressing concern about the nature of the tackle.
The NFL reviewed the incident during its weekly disciplinary process and determined that Smith's actions warranted a $17,911 fine.
Ravens linebacker receives second fine for separate hit
Smith also received a $17,911 fine for a hit on a defenseless player during a separate incident against Buffalo.
The NFL's disciplinary policies prohibit forcible contact against players deemed defenseless under league rules, with fines assessed based on the nature of the violation and applicable disciplinary standards. The two penalties bring Smith's reported fines from the Buffalo game to $35,822.
This isn't the first time Smith has faced discipline for facemask contact this season. The NFL previously fined him $11,941 for grabbing New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough's facemask during a Week 2 matchup.
The repeated violations put more focus on Smith's tackling technique as the Ravens try to correct their defensive problems.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens' Roquan Smith fined $35,822 for two hits against Bills
