Getty Image
Despite a league-wide policy banning the use of tobacco-related products on the field and during interviews, the NFL will not take action against Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield after he was seen using a Zyn pouch against the Baltimore Ravens.
Zyn is a company that sells smoke-free nicotine pouches, which Mayfield was seen putting in his cheek during a 41-31 loss to Baltimore on Monday night football.
The company issued a statement chastising Mayfield for his use of the product during the game.
“Swedish Match appreciates its loyal consumers and encourages them not to show the product in any situation where someone under 21 years old could see it,” a ZYN spokesperson told TMZ. “The product is marketed only to current nicotine consumers 21 years old and over as a better alternative to continued smoking and other traditional tobacco products.”
But ESPN’s Jenna Laine reports that the league has opted to treat Mayfield with leniency.
“The source said Mayfield would receive a letter reminding him that he should not be using the product on the sideline, and he could be subject to a fine if it happens again,” Laine stated.
Baker Mayfield Zyn Controversy Continues His Newsworthy Season Off The Field
It marked the second major controversy this season for Mayfield, who has also established himself as one of the NFL’s better quarterbacks.
Earlier in the season, he took what some saw as a shot at legendary QB Tom Brady.
“The building was a little bit different with Tom in there,” Mayfield said about his time in Tampa. “Obviously, playing-wise, Tom is different. He had everybody dialed in, high-strung environment, so I think everybody was pretty stressed out. They wanted me to come in, be myself, bring the joy back to football for guys who weren’t having as much fun.”
Brady fired back with an on-air shot at Mayfield. But the two seemed to clear the air shortly thereafter.