SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 26: Davante Adams #17 of the Green Bay Packers is seen on the sideline prior to a game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium on September 26, 2021 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
The NFL has elected not to fine San Francisco 49ers safety Jimmie Ward for his hit on Packers wideout Davante Adams.
Adams’ hit looked dangerous in the moment, but was not flagged for helmet-to-helmet contact. The Pro Bowl wideout was evaluated for a concussion, but eventually returned to the game.
There’s an argument to be had that the hit laid out by Ward was not as serious as it initially seemed, and that’s the logic Jon Runyan appears to be employing.
Runyan is not issuing a fine for the hit by Ward. Given the officials’ decision not to flag the tackle as illegal in the moment, this isn’t particularly surprising.
Packers: No fine issued on hit on Davante Adams
The hit by Ward shines a negative light on the NFL’s so-called dedication to player safety. Even in slow motion, there’s no real technique shown by Ward here.
And if that is the proper technique, we should question the NFL’s coaching methods.
Packers fans are furious with the NFL’s decision not to fine Ward after already picking up the flag in real time.
Ward did, seemingly, try to hit Adams with his shoulder. But there was undeniable contact to the head or neck area, which is forbidden in the league rulebook.
If Adams exaggerated, Packers fans are following suit. To be fair, Adams is essential to their success moving forward in what could be Aaron Rodgers’ final season with the club.
So, we’ll forgive them this time, just like the NFL is letting Ward’s hit slide.