Iloka's Suspension Reduced To Fine
Iloka's one-game suspension has been reduced to a $36,464.50 fine.
OMNISPORT
Cincinnati Bengals safety George Iloka will be on the field on Sunday against the Chicago Bears.
His one-game suspension for a hit on Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown on Monday was reduced on Wednesday to a $36,464.50 fine, the NFL announced.
Derrick Brooks, an appeals officer appointed by both the NFL and NFLPA, made the decision to reduce Iloka's punishment.
Iloka's agent, Ron Slavin, released a statement thanking Brooks but reiterated they felt the safety did nothing wrong.
The statement read: "While we still believe George did nothing wrong on the play and the helmet-to-helmet contact was a result of Antonio Brown lowering his head as he braced for contact, we felt and argued that a suspension was particularly egregious.
"We thank Derrick for acknowledging our concerns and making the proper decision."
Steelers receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster also received a one-game suspension for a hard block on the Bengals' Vontaze Burfict and subsequent taunting penalty. Smith-Schuster also appealed his suspension, but it was upheld by appeals officer James Thrash, also jointly appointed by the league and union.