Minkah Fitzpatrick Fined After Hit on KC Concepcion
Minkah Fitzpatrick faces fines for a hit on KC Concepcion during Week 5, while Concepcion is cleared to play against the Ravens.
The NFL has issued fines to Minkah Fitzpatrick of the New York Jets following two significant plays involving the Cleveland Browns' rookie wide receiver, KC Concepcion, during their Week 5 match on October 11.
Fines Issued for Dangerous Plays
Fitzpatrick received a fine totaling $17,911 for a hit in the first quarter that resulted in Concepcion leaving the game. In addition, he was penalized $11,941 for a facemask penalty incurred four plays prior, which involved removing Concepcion’s helmet during a tackle.
Concepcion was injured with 4:59 left in the first quarter while attempting to catch a pass from quarterback Deshaun Watson. As he ran a crossing route, Fitzpatrick delivered a hard, high hit, leaving the rookie vulnerable and unable to continue.
Concepcion’s Perspective
Despite the hit leading him to enter the concussion protocol, Concepcion maintains an understanding of the game's physical nature. Speaking on October 16, he commented, “I don't fault anybody. This game is a very physical game. To me, it wasn't a dirty hit. It was just a football play.”
Fortunately, Concepcion has successfully cleared the concussion protocol and is set to return to the field for the Browns’ upcoming game against the Baltimore Ravens on October 18. He currently holds a tie for the team lead with 18 receptions and ranks third in receiving yards with 149.
Fitzpatrick’s History with the Browns
This encounter marks a continuation of Fitzpatrick's complicated history with the Browns, especially recalling his earlier days with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Last season, during a Week 2 clash, Fitzpatrick was involved in a play that resulted in a serious knee injury to Browns star running back Nick Chubb.
Another Fine for the Browns
Additionally, Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger also faced a fine amounting to $14,899 for a helmet-to-helmet tackle on Jets center Josh Myers during a run play with 4:27 left in the second quarter. Leading with his helmet, Schwesinger made contact with Myers, which led to the fine.
As the NFL continues to enforce player safety, these fines are a reminder of the physical demands of the game and the precautions players must take.
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