VIDEO: Browns' Olivier Vernon Fined for Punch on 49ers' Jimmy Garoppolo
By Jerry Trotta
Cleveland Browns edge rusher Olivier Vernon probably thought he got away with a blatant cheap shot on San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo when the two teams squared off on Monday Night Football. While attempting to stop an end-around to Marquise Goodwin in the first quarter, Vernon audaciously opted to punch Jimmy G right across the helmet. Well, the NFL has reviewed the play and the league settled on fining the former Pro-Bowler a grand total of $10,527.
Browns DE Olivier Vernon was fined $10,527 for this punch to #49ers QB Jimmy Garoppolo:pic.twitter.com/jJeYkIrVCa
— Rob Lowder (@Rob_Lowder) October 12, 2019
In case you were wondering, no, Vernon was somehow not flagged on the play in real time, despite the fact that his shot on Garoppolo materialized smack in the middle of the play and right in front of the sideline referee.
Vernon has the right to appeal the fine, but the footage palpably depicts his guilt. He'd be wise to put this ordeal behind him and focus on not punching quarterbacks in the future, because a suspension would likely be on deck if he commits another similar offense.