In Week 3 of the NFL season, New Orleans Saints rookie defensive tackle Khristian Boyd found himself in hot water after a controversial hit on Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith. The incident, which occurred during a pivotal moment in the game, has not only resulted in a substantial fine but has also sparked significant criticism regarding the officiating of the game.
The hit in question left Smith concussed and unable to continue playing. Despite the severity of the hit, Boyd was not penalized during the game, a decision that has not sat well with many, including players and fans. This has led to discussions about the adequacy of the officials’ response at the time.
According to the NFL's collective bargaining agreement, the maximum fine for a first-time offender's hit on a defenseless player can reach up to $16,883. Boyd’s fine, however, was set at $4,600—10% of his salary cap number, which stands slightly over $839,000. While this might seem lenient in light of the injury caused, it falls within the ranges outlined by the league’s disciplinary framework.
Fred Johnson, who was on the field during the incident, vividly described the unsettling moments that followed the hit. "I'd seen him [knocked] out, and that's when I waved to the training staff, like he's out cold. It was scary. You never want to see (something) like that, especially on a play where he catches the ball, and he's running backwards for like five steps," Johnson recalled. He added that it is the responsibility of the referees to call such plays dead and take appropriate action when a late hit occurs, emphasizing the importance of the player's safety, particularly someone of Smith's size against a defensive lineman.
Teammate C.J. Gardner-Johnson did not mince words in his criticism of the play and its handling. "Man, that's the dirtiest [stuff] I ever saw in football, bro. Y'all obviously saw that forward progression was stopped. And for them to take a cheap shot on one of our key guys, it shows what kind of team that is. They're front-runners." His frustration highlights the impact such incidents can have on team dynamics and the perception of sportsmanship.
Smith’s absence from Eagles' practice on Wednesday underscored the short-term impact of the concussion, with his participation in upcoming games depending on his clearance through the NFL's concussion protocol. This injury not only affects Smith personally but also has broader implications for the Eagles' offensive capabilities in the near future.
In an attempt to make amends for his actions, Khristian Boyd reached out to Smith via Instagram, expressing his regret. "I would never deliberately try to give someone a serious injury," Boyd wrote, navigating the complex intersection of personal remorse and professional aggression inherent to contact sports.
The incident has raised questions about both player conduct and the need for more vigilant officiating to protect athletes. As the season progresses, it will be crucial for the league and its officials to reinforce the protocols and ensure that player safety remains a top priority.
As the conversation continues, the NFL community will watch closely how this situation influences future officiating decisions and player behavior. The handling of such high-stakes moments can alter the trajectory of an athlete's career and can significantly affect team morale and performance.