Houston Texans defensive end Antonio Smith has found himself in hot water after FOX Sport’s Jay Glazer released a video of him using his helmet as a weapon, and swinging it Miami Dolphins offensive lineman Richie Incognito. Smith narrowly missed Incognito’s head.
You can see the video here.
ESPN is now reporting that a suspension from the NFL could follow:
"The NFL is expected to suspend Houston Texans defensive end Antonio Smith for up to two preseason games for using a helmet as a weapon against Miami Dolphins guard Richie Incognito, a source told ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter."
“Next question,” Smith said, declining to talk to reporters after the game.
“I kind of took a blow to the head. I can’t remember,” Smith did say however, making an excuse for himself.
Smith and Incognito have a history. Last season the NFL fined Antonio Smith $21,000 for kicking Incognito. Smith appealed claiming only to retaliate to Incognito intentionally twisting his ankle. That fine was reduced eventually to $11,000.
This adds a darker chapter to the ongoing feud between the two lineman and makes for a glaring display of poor sportsmanship. Suspending a player for two meaningless preseason games seems to be a hollow gesture. The games don’t count for anything so there isn’t really a punishment for missing them.