During Sunday’s the Houston Texans’ 30-9 loss to the Baltimore Ravens Sunday, Texans’ linebacker Whitney Mercilus was flagged for a roughing the passer penalty on Ravens’ quarterback Joe Flacco. During the play, Mercilus’ helmet hit the chin of Flacco, causing the official to throw the flag.
The NFL has decided to fine Mercilus $15,000 for the dirty hit.
On Wednesday, Mercilus confirmed the news.
“I’m going to appeal it just like every other player does in the league and hopefully get the best out of that situation” Mercilus told Sports Radio 610.
Although Texans defensive end Antonio Smith, who was suspended for ripping the helmet off of the head of Miami Dolphins offensive lineman Richie Incognito during the preseason, called the hit “bogus,” much like Smith, this is not an appeal Mercilus is going to win.
Mercilus was drafted by the Texans with the 26th overall pick of the 2012 draft out of Illinois. As a rookie, he had 25 tackles, six sacks, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.
This season, Mercilus has 15 tackles and one sack.