Ravens Ed Reed’s suspension overturned on appeal

On Monday it was announced that Ravens Ed Reed would be suspended for one game without pay for a hit on a defenseless player. Reed hit is said to have hit Pittsburgh Steelers receiver, Emmanuel Sanders Sunday in the head and neck area.

Although it didn’t appear that Reed intentionally hit Sanders in the head,  helmet-to-helmet contact is a violation of player safety rules. According to the NFL this was Reed’s third violation over the last three seasons and thus they considered him a repeat offender. Reed’s suspension would’ve resulted in a loss of around $400K since he’d be docked pay.

Reed filed an appeal and his suspension was overturned and the fine was reduced to $50K… big difference.

“I have determined that your actions were egregious and warrant significant discipline. However, I do not believe that your actions were so egregious as to subject you to a one-game suspension without pay,” said Ted Cottrell, the hearing officer in the appeal.

“Player safety is the league’s primary concern in the formation of playing rules and all players are expected to adhere to those rules or face disciplinary action. I hope in the future you will focus on ensuring that your play conforms to the rules.”