NFL questionably slaps Jets' WR with $14K fine for 'violent gesture'

Ralph Ventre

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NFL questionably slaps Jets' WR with $14K fine for 'violent gesture' image

© Robert Deutsch

First, the game officials slapped Allen Lazard with a 15-yard penalty. Next, the NFL added a financial penalty to the mix for the New York Jets' veteran wide receiver.

Flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct in a 10-9 loss to the Denver Broncos, Lazard must now pay a $14,069 fine as a result of his "violent gesture." NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero reported the punitive measure on Saturday evening.

One prevailing opinion is that the NFL-imposed fine seems excessive, considering Lazard did not appear to taunt his opponent nor act maliciously with his post-catch celebratory gesture.

Late in the third quarter, Lazard made a back-shoulder grab while falling to the ground with cornerback Riley Moss in coverage near the right sideline. After the 12-yard gain that moved the ball into the red zone, the veteran wide receiver celebrated while seated on the turf facing the end zone.

The 28-year-old Lazard casually spun the ball low into the air and then pointed ahead with a double handle gesture that resembled firing pistols. He did not appear to direct the celebratory act toward Moss and anyone else.

Lazard seemed surprised when a flag was thrown. Talking to the head referee Ron Torbert, flag-throwing field judge Ryan Dickson can be seen reenacting the finger guns gesture that drew the penalty. The Jets eventually settled for a 40-yard field goal on the possession.

In his second season since signing as a free agent, Lazard leads New York in receiving yards (206) and TD receptions (3). He gained 58 yards on five catches in the September 29 setback to Denver.

 

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Ralph Ventre

Ralph Ventre Photo

Ralph Ventre, a former college football conference administrator, brings 20 years of media experience to the New York Jets beat. Prior to concentrating on Gang Green, he covered the NCAA DI Football Championship Subdivision for NFL Draft Bible on Sports Illustrated’s FanNation. Ventre remains an official voter for the Stats Perform FCS Top 25 and the annual legacy awards. The Fordham University graduate is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America, and he also covers the Buffalo Bills on SI. The veteran sports media professional resides in his native state of New Jersey.