NEW YORK -- Eagles linebacker Ernie Sims has been fined $50,000 for striking a defenseless receiver in the Eagles game with the Titans on Oct. 24.
It's the first large fine handed out by the NFL since it sent a video to the 32 teams emphasizing what hits would bring big fines and possible suspensions.
Sims is a repeat offender, having been fined twice for unnecessary roughness, on Dec. 28, 2008 and on Sept. 13, 2009, both while with the Detroit Lions.
The fine was issued by NFL executive vice president of football operations Ray Anderson, who told Sims that "further offenses will result in an escalation of fines up to and including suspension."
Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press
