NFL reverses course on a decision that would have cost Buffalo Bills fan-favorite defender
"Buffalo Joe" Andreessen was fined, and then he wasn't. Nobody is likely more happy about that than Ryan Fitzpatrick.Two weeks ago against the Seattle Seahawks, Joe Andreessen, a local kid that got invited to training camp after an impressive tryout and eventual did enough in the preseason to make the 53-man roster, laid a big […]
"Buffalo Joe" Andreessen was fined, and then he wasn't. Nobody is likely more happy about that than Ryan Fitzpatrick.
Two weeks ago against the Seattle Seahawks, Joe Andreessen, a local kid that got invited to training camp after an impressive tryout and eventual did enough in the preseason to make the 53-man roster, laid a big hit on kickoff coverage. It was a clean tackle, no flag was thrown on the play, and the league decided to fine him over $4 million for the hit anyways.
What makes that particularly challenging is that Andreessen is making the base salary this year of only $795k dollars. The league was essentially electing to fine a player over four times his season salary. Former Bills' QB Ryan Fitzpatrick was willing to pony up to pay the fine.
As Fitz said, you "can't be taking money away from Mr. Buffalo."
Fortunately for Fitzpatrick's wallet, after appeal, the league has rescinded the fine, but I'm sure it was a bit of a surreal experience for Andreessen seeing Fitzpatrick, who Andreessen assuredly grew up watching as a Western New York native, offer to step in and take care of the tab.
With the fine now behind him, Andreessen can put his focus into preparing for Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts. The undrafted rookie is pretty far down the depth chart at the linebacker position, but is contributing weekly on kick coverage, kick return, punt coverage, and punt return. He'll aim to continue his growth with the team in whatever opportunities are afforded to him.
Buffalo Bills receive big loss before Week 10 game against Colts even begins
Well that’s not great.
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