NFL FINES THREE COACHES OVER CONDUCT TOWARDS OFFICIALS

The NFL has reportedly fined New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel, New York Jets coach Aaron Glenn and Philadelphia Eagles coach Nick Sirianni $250,000 each over their conduct towards game officials. Albert Breer reported that the fines remain in abeyance, meaning the league has put collection on hold. He said the NFL could withdraw them if the coaches show good behaviour. The league has not identified the specific conduct behind each penalty.

Officials penalised Vrabel during a Week 4 game after he challenged a disputed call. Vrabel later said he had called it a “terrible” call, adding: “It was nothing derogatory.” During Philadelphia’s 2023 playoff game against the New York Giants, a broadcast caught Sirianni swearing at an official who had asked him to move back. Sirianni said he had been trying to call a timeout.

Glenn also argued with officials, including referee Bill Vinovich, during a game against the Cleveland Browns. He believed they had missed two penalties, including a hit on Jets quarterback Geno Smith that drew no roughing-the-passer flag. Glenn also challenged a play involving Jets returner Isaiah Williams, who signalled for a fair catch after a punt by Browns player Corey Bojorquez. The NFL has not linked any of these exchanges to the fines or specified what each coach must do to have a fine withdrawn.