Posted on Sep 29
Steelers' Minkah Fitzpatrick voices frustration over penalty: "Can't hit nobody hard"
u/alex •
Steelers' Minkah Fitzpatrick expresses frustration over penalty in loss to Colts
Why it matters: The incident highlights the ongoing debate surrounding player safety and the enforcement of rules designed to protect defenseless players.
What's new: Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick was penalized for unnecessary roughness after a hit on Colts wide receiver Adonai Mitchell during a deep sideline pass. Fitzpatrick disagreed with the penalty, stating that he thought they were playing football and expressing frustration with the perceived changes in the game.
Yes, but: While Fitzpatrick and his teammate DeShon Elliott argue that the hit was legal and not malicious, officials deemed Mitchell a defenseless player, leading to the penalty and ultimately impacting the outcome of the game.
What to watch: The incident brings attention to the ongoing discussion about player safety and the balance between preserving the physicality of the game and protecting players from unnecessary harm. It also raises questions about the consistency and interpretation of penalties by officials.
Our thought bubble: The NFL has been taking steps to prioritize player safety in recent years, implementing rules and policies aimed at reducing injuries and long-term health risks. However, determining what constitutes a legal or illegal hit remains subjective, leading to debates and frustrations among players, coaches, and fans alike.
The bottom line: As the league continues its efforts to strike a balance between maintaining the excitement and physicality of the sport while ensuring player safety, instances like Fitzpatrick's penalty serve as reminders that opinions will differ on what is acceptable within the evolving landscape of the game.