The NFL has fined Ravens outside linebacker Matthew Judon $35,096 for physically contacting an official during last Sunday’s 28-24 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Judon was ejected for “intentionally contacting an official” amid a scuffle that broke out between the teams in the second quarter. Referee Brad Allen announced that Judon “intentionally” made contact with field judge Rick Patterson, though it appeared to be incidental as Judon was trying to break free from the grasp of a Ravens assistant.
Al Riveron, NFL senior vice president of officiating, told a pool reporter that the decision to disqualify Judon was up to the discretion of the official.
“The officials reported there was contact with an official, so he was disqualified,” Riveron said.
Judon, who wasn’t made available to speak to reporters after the game, released a statement through the team, saying, “I would never intentionally make contact with an official. I was attempting to free my arm as I was being held back, and I inadvertently contacted the official’s arm. My emotions were running high in the moment, and I take full responsibility for what happened. I need to do a better job of keeping my cool and not doing anything that negatively affects my team.”
Ravens cornerback Marcus Peters and Steelers wide receiver Diontae Johnson, both of whom were flagged during the same play for unnecessary roughness, were not fined.