subject: Ernie Sims fined $50K, given warning [print this page] Ernie Sims fined $50K, given warning Ernie Sims fined $50K, given warning
It's the first large fine handed out by the NFL since it sent a video to the 32 teams emphasizing what hits would bring big fines and possible suspensions.
Sims is a repeat offender, having been fined twice for unnecessary roughness, on Dec. 28, 2008 and on Sept. 13, 2009, both while with the Detroit Lions.
The fine was issued by NFL executive vice president of football operations Ray Anderson, who told Sims that "further offenses will result in an escalation of fines up to and including suspension."
Hawkins' only catch in the game was for 5 yards in the third quarter.
Since Anderson announced a crackdown on flagrant fouls -- the kind that drew a $75,000 fine for Steelers linebacker James Harrison and $50,000 each for New England's Brandon Meriweather and Atlanta's Dunta Robinson last month -- only Sims has been nailed a big amount.
Few penalties have been called for hits to defenseless players in the head or neck area since the crackdown.
Merriman must report to the Bills within five days or he'll be placed on the Reserve/Left Squad list and would not be able to play the rest of the nfl jerseyseason, at which point his status would be determined by the next collective bargaining agreement. At the moment, Merriman plans to report to Buffalo, sources told Schefter. He is not, however, expected to play Sunday against the Chicago Bears.
"We need more playmakers," Bills linebacker Chris Kelsay said Wednesday. "And if he can come in here and do that for us, we'll welcome him with open arms."
Having the NFL's worst record has at least one perk: At 0-7, the Bills took advantage of having first crack at acquiring the one-time feared pass-rusher because waived players are awarded to the worst team that submits a claim.
"It changes the conversation because we all know what he can do," said safety Donte Whitner. "I think it'll be huge. I think it'll be big for us."
The move was made by first-year general mlb jersyes manager Buddy Nix, who is familiar with Merriman. Nix previously worked in the Chargers' front office when they drafted the outside linebacker with the 12th pick in 2005. Merriman won the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in '05.
"We think Shawne can help our defense," Nix said in a statement released by the team. "He has been an impact player in a 3-4 defense, and we feel this is a good opportunity to make our team better."
Merriman was placed on the injured reserve list because of a calf injury. Merriman went on the list with a "minor-injury nfl jersey designation," meaning he was to be released by the Chargers once healthy.
To make room on the roster, the Bills placed offensive tackle Cornell Green on injured reserve. Green had started the first five games at right tackle before sustaining a knee injury.
