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Browns DB Fined for Un-Flagged Hit against Steelers

Originally posted on Steelers Now | By Alan Saunders | Last updated 11/25/23

Cleveland Browns safety Rodney McLeod was fine for an unflagged helmet-to-helmet hit in his team’s Week 11 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, the National Football League announced on Saturday.

McLeod hit Steelers punt return Calvin Austin III with a helmet to helmet blow with 9 minutes remaining in the second quarter. The play was not called a penalty, which would have given the Steelers an additional 15 yards of field position and could have given Pittsburgh a field goal on that drive in what became a three-point margin of victory for Cleveland.

McLeod was fined $7,319 for the hit. Fine amounts are set by the NFL CBA. Fines go to the Professional Athletes Foundation, which gives money to NFL legends in need and provides funds to support the health and safety of football players at all levels.

The hit the paycheck adds insult to injury for McLeod. He suffered a torn biceps later in the game and is expected to miss the rest of the season.

“Disappointment, frustration, anger are all valid emotions as my 2023 season comes to an end,” McLeod posted on X. “However I am thankful for this season of gratitude to reflect on the blessings God has provided over my 12 year career.”

Austin did not appear to be injured on the play. Two Steelers were fined for their actions against the Browns , cornerback Patrick Peterson and outside linebacker Alex Highsmith. Highsmith was fined $16,391, while Peterson was hit with a $10,927 penalty.