NFL makes Rams' playoff elimination feel even worse for two players after latest update

The Los Angeles Rams got eliminated from the playoffs with a 28-22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last Sunday. The situation has just become a little worse for two players, who were fined by the NFL for in-game actions. Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon was fined $6,722 for unnecessary roughness (hit on a defenseless player), while linebacker […]

Wendell Ferreira NFL News Writer
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Los Angeles Rams cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon (4) before action against the Philadelphia Eagles in a 2025 NFC divisional round game at Lincoln Financial Field.
Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Rams got eliminated from the playoffs with a 28-22 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last Sunday. The situation has just become a little worse for two players, who were fined by the NFL for in-game actions.

Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon was fined $6,722 for unnecessary roughness (hit on a defenseless player), while linebacker Michael Hoecht was punished for a late hit, also unnecessary roughness, and the amount of money was $11,255.

During the playoffs, players don't receive their usual paychecks based on their regular contracts. Each player receives a compensation from the league. In the divisional round, it was $54,500, so the fine is a significant portion of it.

To protect players from unnecessary risk and preserve competitive balance and game integrity, the NFL and NFL Players Association have agreed on a set of game-related rules violations that may result in accountability measures.

Players are notified of violations and may appeal any ruling. Cases are heard by appeals officers and former NFL players, Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster, Kevin Mawae, or Jordy Nelson, who are jointly appointed and paid by the NFL/NFLPA. The decisions made are final and binding.

The fines collected are donated to the Professional Athletes Foundation to support Legends in need and the NFL Foundation to further support the health, safety and wellness of athletes across all levels, including youth football and the communities that support the game.