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NFL Legend JJ Watt has accused the NFL of “Stealing” money from players, criticizing what he calls “absurd” fines for routine football plays.
Watt argues that these fines do not contribute to player safety, highlighting the legality of cut blocks, which can directly target players’ knees.
The former NFL star opened up about his issues on social media: “This is STEALING money from guys. These absurd fines for routine football plays have got to stop.
Fines added: “Fines for intentfully malicious plays? Absolutely. Taking $21,694 from a guy for this?! What are we doing. This is out of control.”
Watt continued: “And don’t tell me it’s about ‘player safety.’ Cut blocks are legal. You can LITERALLY target a player’s knee with your helmet intentionally. So don’t act like we’re on some high and mighty ‘player safety’ crusade.”
And don’t tell me it’s about “player safety”.
Cut blocks are legal. You can LITERALLY target a players knee with your helmet intentionally.
So don’t act like we’re on some high and mighty “player safety” crusade.
— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) November 5, 2023
Watt shared a video of Ravens fullback Patrick Richard making a block against the Cardinals last Sunday, the NFL fined him $21,694.15 for what appears to be a normal block.
Watt, who recently retired after an incredible, Hall of Fame level career, which included three Defensive Player of the Year awards and numerous other honors including the Walter Payton Man of the Year, holds a prominent voice in the NFL community.