NFL’s latest decision proves Tom Brady did Falcons player dirty in roughing the passer controversy
Tom Brady is a player that you either love or hate and that's been the case during his 23 seasons in the NFL. However, a new controversy has erupted regarding the legendary quarterback.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers star seemed to have kicked Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman Grady Jarrett during a controversial roughing-the-passer play. The incident in question happened in the fourth quarter of their Week 5 game as Garrett sacked the three-time NFL MVP.
However, referee Jerome Bolger called roughing the passer on the Falcons star. As for the kick by the seven-time Super Bowl winner to Garrett, NFL insider Tom Pelissero said on Twitter that the NFL's fine given to the quarterback tells the whole story:
"#Falcons DT Grady Jarrett wasn’t fined for the hit on #Bucs QB Tom Brady last week that led to a controversial roughing the passer penalty, aiding Tampa Bay’s win. Brady was fined $11,139 for kicking at Jarrett after the hit."
#Falcons DT Grady Jarrett wasn’t fined for the hit on #Bucs QB Tom Brady last week that led to a controversial roughing the passer penalty, aiding Tampa Bay’s win.
Brady was fined $11,139 for kicking at Jarrett after the hit. https://t.co/2T2RH123tf
The NFL fine for striking/kicking/kneeing is $11,139 for a first offense and $16,444 for a second offense.
Jarrett excitedly picked himself up off the field at the Raymond James Stadium, celebrating what he deemed to be a vital play in the 21 -15 game. He had to step over the quarterback in the process, drawing an angry reaction from the 45-year-old signal-caller, who kicked at the Falcons lineman.
The kick didn't hit Jarrett, but the intent was sufficient to cause the NFL to fine Brady.
While Tampa Bay head coach Todd Bowles said he was unaware of the kick, Falcons head coach Arthur Smith was fully aware of the kerfuffle during the 21- 15 loss. Smith was seen on the sidelines, saying this:
"You f---ing b---h."
Arthur Smith with some strong words for ... 🤷♂️ https://t.co/vRXhomNxOB
Last time Tom Brady was fined by the NFL
It's not the first time Tom Brady has been fined for attempting to kick another player. In 2013, Brady was fined $10,000 for attempting to kick former Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed while with the New England Patriots.
As for the Week 5 matchup, the penalty was a key play that would have given Atlanta the ball with a chance to score and take the lead. Instead, it gave the Buccaneers a set of downs which allowed them to win the game by a 21-15 score.