The Carolina Panthers and Atlanta Falcons played almost two weeks ago in a battle of divisional rivals. As with any football game, numerous hard hits were administered on both sides from either team.
Only one unnecessary roughness penalty was called during the game, attributed to Falcons defensive back Brian Poole in the second quarter. None were administered to Carolina until safety Kurt Coleman received a letter and fine from the NFL this week.
Coleman was fined $24,309 for a late game hit on Atlanta running back Devonta Freeman. Quarterback Matt Ryan connected with Freeman on a swing pass just prior to the final two-minute warning when Coleman laid the, as ruled on the field, clean hit.