NFL PLayers Fined for Calling out Refs

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Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher has been fined $20,000 by the NFL for abusive conduct toward a game official, the Chicago Sun-Times reported Friday on its Web site.

Urlacher was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct in Sunday's 22-20 loss to the Atlanta Falcons after Bears tackle Tommy Harris had recovered a fumble before giving the ball back to Atlanta while trying to lateral the ball.

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A replay challenge followed the play, as the Bears thought Harris was down by contact before the play's second turnover.

The Bears lost the challenge, and Urlacher directed words toward an official, drawing the penalty.

News of Urlacher's fine comes amid a barrage of financial penalties involving players' responses to officiating in Sunday's games.

Miami Dolphins linebacker Joey Porter and Denver Broncos cornerback Dre Bly were each fined $20,000 for critical comments.

St. Louis Rams guard Richie Incognito was fined $25,000 for verbal abuse of an official, in addition to $5,000 for a major facemask and $5,000 for a chop block.

 

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The National Football League just loves making that extra money.