Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes got hit hard by Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman Jalen Carter in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl LIX.
After Mahomes was stripped of the ball, Carter drilled him in the helmet, knocking him to the ground. No penalty was called on the play, allowing the Eagles to recover the ball.
The game was well in hand at that point (the Eagles were up 37-6) but it was still a little surprising to not see a call there. The NFL then reviewed the play, deciding to not fine Carter for the hit.
Fellow defensive lineman Milton Williams celebrated after the play and was fined $14,069 for dunking the ball over the crossbar.
NFL fans are confused by this standard from the league.
“Fining players for celebrations during the Super Bowl should be illegal,” one tweet read.
“Don’t worry, Milton Williams will have PLENTY of money to cover this fine next month,” another tweet read.
“Appreciate you pointing out the ridiculousness here. $14k for a celebratory move that did not hurt anyone. How dare there be excitement shown,” another tweet read.
“The NFL is so lame for fining players for celebrating,” another tweet read.
Williams will have no problem paying that fine after becoming a Super Bowl champion. He’s also going to get a big contract this March when the new league year opens since he’s a free agent.
There will be a lot of interest in him after how good of a 2024 season he had. He finished with 24 total tackles, five sacks, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery, and a pass defended.
Teams are always looking for pass-rushing help in free agency and this year will be no different.