Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald has received a fine of $10,300 from the NFL for choking Lucas Patrick of the Green Bay Packers, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The move was deemed unnecessary roughness, though Donald was not flagged for it during the game.
Donald is known for being incredibly strong and physical, so being on the receiving end of that choke was surely an uncomfortable experience for Patrick. The Packers guard wasn’t injured though and the team went on to defeat the Rams, 36-28.
The league fining the Rams star is obviously the right move but it underscores some of its ridiculous rule enforcements. For one, it wasn’t even called during the game despite an official being in the vicinity to break it up. The NFL also defines various behaviors as unsportsmanlike conduct and they all receive the same fine amount (for first-time infractions). This means that celebrations sometimes get fined for the same amount as deliberately choking an opponent.
Donald has 51 tackles, 15 quarterback hits, and 6.0 sacks on the season. The 7-4 Rams are on a three-game losing streak. They should be able to snap that streak this Sunday against the lowly Jacksonville Jaguars. After being tied for the top spot in the NFC West, the Rams need to get back on track soon.