For the second week in a row, the Atlanta Falcons have been fined by the NFL. This time, it’s safety Justin Simmons receiving a fine of $22,511 for using his helmet during a third-quarter hit against the Kansas City Chiefs (unnecessary roughness), ESPN’s Marc Raimondi reported.
Simmons intercepted Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes in the first half of Sunday’s 22-17 loss. It was Simmons’ sixth career interception of Mahomes, which is the most by any player in the NFL. The veteran safety finished the game with six combined tackles and one pass defended.
The NFL fined #Falcons S Justin Simmons $22,511 for unnecessary roughness (using his helmet) in the third quarter against the Chiefs last Sunday night.
— Marc Raimondi (@marcraimondi) September 28, 2024
Last week, Falcons wide receiver Drake London was fined for his touchdown celebration against the Philadelphia Eagles. London made a gun-like gesture after scoring the go-ahead touchdown in the fourth quarter, which is not allowed by the league.
Atlanta will attempt to get back on track in Week 4 against the New Orleans Saints. Since both teams are down key offensive linemen, Sunday’s game will likely come down to who wins the battle in the trenches. The Saints ruled out guard Cesar Ruiz while the Falcons will be without right tackle Kaleb McGary.
Atlanta’s pass rush continues to rank near the bottom of the NFL and the team has not been especially good against the run this season. However, the Falcons are slightly favored at home in Week 4.
Check out the team’s updated depth chart, injury report and 53-man roster heading into Sunday’s NFC South showdown.