NFL chooses not to fine Marcus Epps for dangerous hit to Treylon Burks

After delivering a tough hit to wide receiver Treylon Burks last week, Eagles safety Marcus Epps was not penalized further by the NFL. Epps delivered a dangerous hit to Burks last week in the end zone as he attempted to force an incompletion, hitting Burks in the helmet and giving him a concussion that took him out of the game.

The moment was a scary one for Burks and football fans watching the game, as he remained on the field in a fixed position for a long time after receiving the hit — visibly injured on the play. While Epps was flagged on the play, the NFL has made the decision to not fine him or punish him any further for the incident.

Marcus Epps not fined for hit on Treylon Burks

Given the highly visible nature of the hit and immediate effect on Burks, the decision by the NFL came as a surprise to many on Saturday. The former Arkansas standout was forced out of last week’s game with the injury immediately, and will likely miss next week at a minimum as well while he continues to progress through concussion protocols.

The NFL’s track record over recent years seems to indicate that head injuries and dangerous hits to helmets are a priority for the league, leading fans to believe the hit would draw a fine or further disciplinary action as a result. However, the NFL’s ruling seems to indicate they found the hit to be an accidental impact and not an explicitly dangerous attempt to make contact with the helmet of a defenseless receiver.