The NFL has fined Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon $25,000 for allegedly criticizing referees after the team’s playoff loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. However, there’s a major issue—Mixon didn’t actually make the statement that led to the fine. Instead, the quote in question came from former Bengals wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh, but the league mistakenly attributed it to Mixon.
NFL Issues Fine Based on a Misattributed Quote
During the Texans’ playoff game against the Chiefs, Houshmandzadeh posted on social media criticizing the officiating. His comment read:
“Why play the game if every 50/50 call goes with Chiefs? These officials are (trash) & bias(ed).”
The NFL wrongly attributed this statement to Mixon and issued the $25,000 fine, believing he had violated league rules by publicly criticizing officials.
Mixon Responds to the NFL’s Decision
Upon learning about the fine, Mixon took to social media to express his frustration:
“I’m getting fined by the (NFL) for what someone else said. What’s next? I get fined by them for Connor McDavid cross-checking an opponent on a (NHL) game!”
Mixon’s response highlighted the absurdity of the situation, comparing it to being penalized for something completely unrelated to him.
NFL Reportedly Fines Mixon Again for Speaking Out
After voicing his displeasure over the initial fine, Mixon later revealed that the league fined him again for his social media post criticizing their decision. In another post, he wrote:
“So let me get this straight. NFL fines me 25k for something I didn’t even say. Call them out for it, and their response was to fine me AGAIN for something that’s not even a violation without even rescinding the first one. Where’s the accountability? Just respect the players.”
His comments raise concerns about how the league handles player discipline and whether athletes are allowed to question such decisions without facing further penalties.
Mixon’s Agent Calls for Action
Mixon’s agent, Peter Schaffer, has strongly opposed the fine and is actively working to appeal the NFL’s decision. In a statement to ESPN, he said:
“We will defend Joe and have appealed the fine and will explore all other legal avenues to rectify this situation. This has to stop.”
Schaffer’s remarks suggest that the situation may escalate further, potentially leading to legal action against the league if the fines are not revoked.
Joe Mixon’s situation raises serious questions about the NFL’s disciplinary system. If the league fined him based on a misattributed quote, it sets a dangerous precedent for holding players accountable for statements they never made.
The fact that Mixon was fined again for merely defending himself adds another layer of controversy. As his agent appeals the decision, many fans and players are watching closely to see whether the NFL will correct its mistake and ensure accountability in its disciplinary process.
