Steelers’ Harrison fined $75,000

PITTSBURGH

Steelers linebacker James Harrison has been fined $75,000 by the NFL for his helmet-leading hit that caused Browns wide receiver Mohamed Massaquoi to receive a concussion. Harrison was not suspended.

The fine came as the league announced it would begin suspending players for dangerous and flagrant hits. Harrison was not penalized on the play.

Browns wide receiver Joshua Cribbs also sustained a concussion on a helmet-first hit by Harrison on a running play a few minutes before the Massaquoi hit. The Cribbs tackle was not reviewed by the NFL.

Harrison’s agent, Bill Parise, calls the fine “staggering” and said it will be appealed. He also said Harrison is confused about the proper way to play football. Steelers coach Mike Tomlin defended both hits, saying they were permissible under league rules.