Steelers coach Tomlin fined $100,000
The NFL fined Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin $100,000 for interfering with a play in progress during last Thursday night's game against the Baltimore Ravens, the league announced Wednesday.
Additionally, because the conduct affected a play on the field, the Steelers may also lose a 2014 draft choice.
The NFL also said in its statement announcing the punishment that Tomlin should have been penalized 15 yards for unsportsmanlike conduct.
The play occurred with 6:26 left in the third quarter of the game. After Pittsburgh scored to close to 13-7, Baltimore returner Jacoby Jones broke free down the sideline on the ensuing kickoff but slowed up with Tomlin on the white stripe near the field of play -- with his foot on the field at one point as Jones neared his location. Tomlin had his back to the play.
Tomlin released a statement Wednesday reiterating that he made a mistake that was not intentional.
"As I stated yesterday, I take full responsibility for my actions, and I apologize for causing negative attention to the Pittsburgh Steelers organization," Tomlin said. "I accept the penalty that I received. I will no longer address this issue as I am preparing for an important game this Sunday against the Miami Dolphins."
