The NFL has handed down a fine to Baltimore Ravens safety Ar’Darius Washington for his actions during the team’s Wild Card Round playoff game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
According to a report by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Washington was fined $8,771 for unsportsmanlike conduct during the game. The fine is a result of Washington’s actions in the fourth quarter of the game, when he was involved in a heated exchange with Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson.
The incident occurred with just over two minutes remaining in the game, when Washington and Johnson were involved in a scuffle on the sidelines. Washington was seen throwing a punch at Johnson, which sparked a brief melee between the two teams.
Washington was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct on the play, and the Ravens were ultimately forced to punt the ball away. The Steelers took over and drove down the field, scoring a touchdown to take the lead and ultimately win the game.
The fine is the latest development in what has been a tumultuous offseason for the Ravens. The team has been dealing with the aftermath of a disappointing playoff loss, and has also been navigating the complexities of quarterback Lamar Jackson’s contract situation.
Despite the challenges, the Ravens are expected to be a major player in the AFC North next season. The team has a strong core of players, including Jackson, running back J.K. Dobbins, and tight end Mark Andrews.
The Steelers, meanwhile, are looking to build on their playoff win over the Ravens. The team has a number of key free agents to re-sign, including safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and linebacker Alex Highsmith.
The two teams are expected to be major rivals in the AFC North next season, and the fine handed down to Washington is just the latest chapter in what is sure to be a heated rivalry.
In other news, the NFL has also announced that it will be taking a closer look at the incident involving Washington and Johnson. The league has announced that it will be reviewing the play to determine whether or not further discipline is warranted.
The review is expected to take place in the coming days, and could potentially result in further fines or even a suspension for Washington.
Regardless of the outcome, the incident is sure to be a major talking point in the lead-up to next season. The Ravens and Steelers are two of the most storied franchises in the NFL, and their rivalry is always intense.
The fine handed down to Washington is just the latest chapter in what is sure to be a heated rivalry next season.
