The NFL reversed the fine that was imposed on Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith for a tackle on Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin, which led to an ankle injury. The hit took place during the Ravens’ 41-31 win over the Bucs on October 21. Godwin suffered a dislocated left ankle and was later placed on injured reserve.
The NFL initially fined Smith $16,833 for unnecessary roughness, claiming he had made an illegal hip-drop tackle. However, Smith appealed the fine, and it was eventually rescinded. The tackle was not penalized during the game.
Before the injury, Godwin had been having a strong season, with seven receptions for 65 yards in the game. He was leading the NFL with 50 catches and had 576 yards, ranked third in the league, along with five touchdowns through seven games.
After the injury, Godwin underwent surgery on October 24, and it is expected to take 10-12 weeks for recovery, meaning he will miss the rest of the regular season. However, there is a chance he could return for the playoffs.
