The NFL has fined cornerback Riq Woolen $5,933 for unnecessary roughness during the Seattle Seahawks Week 15 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
The incident occurred in the first quarter on the second offensive play of the game. Woolen came unblocked off of the edge on a blitz and hit Packers quarterback Jordan Love well after he threw the ball. Woolen was penalized on the play.
Green Bay went on to score a touchdown on that drive, and pretty much controlled the game throughout as it won by a comfortable 30-13 final score. Woolen likely didn't mean any ill-intent with his hit on Love as he was running full speed and just trying to make a play.
Fairly or not, the NFL is going to fine players for late hits every time, especially when they're on a quarterback. It is a part of the league's effort to enforce player safety, which has been under scrutiny for the consistency of how that is carried out. All Woolen can do is learn from it and try not to repeat the mistake again.
The Seahawks host the Minnesota Vikings in a crucial matchup with playoff implications on Sunday. At 8-6, Seattle needs a win to keep pace with the Los Angeles Rams (also 8-6) for the NFC West lead, and the Arizona Cardinals are still a factor as well. Woolen has played well this season and will be a big part of the success of the Seahawks' defense down the stretch.
