|
 NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations Troy Vincent
wrote in the memo that prohibiting fights during games will be a
point of emphasis for referees this season.
"As professionals, no matter how emotional the game becomes, there
is nothing that should resort to fighting," Vincent wrote.
"Coaches are encouraged to emphasize to players, coaches, and other
club personnel who are on the sidelines, that fighting will not be
tolerated."
In the memo sent to team executives, general managers and head
coaches, Vincent reiterated the NFL policy: "Don't fight, and if a
fight breaks out involving other players, stay away."
The NFL has been rocked recently by several incidents of fighting in
training camp.
A joint practice last Saturday between the Houston Texans and
Washington Redskins was disrupted by several brawls, while at the
Carolina Panthers' training camp on Monday a scuffle broke out
between quarterback Cam Newton and cornerback Josh Norman.
[to top of second column] |
On Tuesday, New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith had his jaw broken
when he was punched in the locker room by teammate IK Enemkpali.
Smith underwent surgery Thursday and is expected to be out six to 10
weeks, while Enemkpali was released by the Jets and picked up by the
Buffalo Bills.
(Reporting by Steve Ginsburg in Washington; Editing by Eric Beech)
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