Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens are gearing up to face the New England Patriots on Sunday in what has become a must-win game for Baltimore. Heading into the showdown, the Ravens’ chances of making the postseason stand at just 38%, according to NFL research. However, that number would rise to 47% with a victory in this crucial matchup.
Ahead of the game, the NFL announced that one Ravens player is facing disciplinary action. Each Saturday throughout the season, the league issues fines and punishments to players for infractions committed during the previous week’s games. According to the NFL’s official website, these measures are taken “to protect players from unnecessary risk and preserve competitive balance and game integrity.”
Prior to the season, the NFL and the NFL Players Association agree on a set of game-related rules violations that lead to these accountability measures.
The Ravens had a dominant performance last week, shutting out the Cincinnati Bengals 24-0. Despite the strong showing, linebacker David Ojabo has been fined $13,980 for unnecessary roughness, specifically for a hip-drop tackle. The incident occurred at the 4:35 mark in the second quarter of the game.
Ojabo’s fine is one of the larger ones handed out this week, although not the highest. The biggest fine for Week 15 was $23,186, issued to Kevin Winston of the Tennessee Titans.
Per the NFL’s rulebook, all funds collected from player fines are directed to the Professional Athletes Foundation, which supports legends in need, and the NFL Foundation, which focuses on the health, safety, and wellness of athletes across all levels—including youth football and the communities that support the game.
While Ojabo has the option to appeal the fine, most NFL players typically choose to pay and move on.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Ravens prepare for their crucial clash with the Patriots this Sunday.
https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nfl/nfl-announces-punishment-for-ravens-player-before-patriots-game-11249890