Cincinnati Bengals superstar Ja'Marr Chase is paying for his outburst toward an NFL referee in Week 2.
During the 26-25 loss against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 2, Chase exploded on NFL referee Alex Kemp, arguing for a hip-drop tackle on a second-down reception in the fourth quarter.
After no flag was thrown, Chase continued to scream at Kemp with Joe Burrow trying to reign in the star wideout, resulting in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Kemp said after the game that Chase used "abusive language" toward him during the outburst.
The NFL clearly wanted to make an example of Chase, slapping him with a fine worth $31,599.
The NFL fined #Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase $31,599 for unsportsmanlike conduct — screaming at referee Alex Kemp, who flagged Chase for abusive language.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 21, 2024
Chase wanted a flag for a hip-drop tackle on Trent McDuffie, who was neither flagged nor fined. pic.twitter.com/Imteg1jDbX
Chase had an argument about the tackle, especially considering the NFL implemented a new rule regarding the hip-drop tackle, but the NFL disagreed upon further review.
Four players, including Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton, were fined for hip-drop tackles in Week 2. However, none of them were penalized during the game.
Fellow Bengals wide receiver Andrei Iosivas was also fined in Week 2 for his bow-and-arrow celebration following a touchdown.
