Mac Jones fined by NFL for low block on Eli Apple

The NFL has chosen to fine Patriots quarterback Mac Jones for a low hit he delivered to a defender during Saturday’s game. During a chaotic fumble return by the Bengals, Jones appeared to leave his pursuit of the ball carrier and deliver a low block to cornerback Eli Apple.

After reviewing the play, the NFL made the decision to fine Jones $11,139 for his action on the field, according to a report by Pro Football Talk.

Mac Jones fined for low block

The fine was a result of the attempt made by Jones to block a player below the waist — a violation of the NFL rules after a change of possession to help protect players. According to the report, Jones will receive the fine via letter later this week.

The block attempt drew controversy around Jones as it appeared to be unrelated to the ball as it was run in for a touchdown, although Jones claimed afterwards that he was trying to keep Apple from blocking one of his receivers on the return.

After the game on Saturday, Bengals cornerback Eli Apple wasn’t happy with Jones seemingly taking out his legs on the Cincinnati fumble return.

“Of course I did [notice it]. He tripped me,” said Apple. “I thought it was a dirty play. He’s done that before, I’ve seen it.”

The play drew additional controversy and questions as Jones has been involved in several questionable plays during his short NFL career — including an ankle twisting tackle against the Carolina Panthers last season. After being sacked and fumbling the ball on a tackle from Brian Burns, Jones grabbed onto his ankle and twisted him down to the ground in a tackle attempt. Burns was injured on the play and immediately after the game Jones was criticized for what Panthers players believed was a dirty tackle.