There could be repercussions for Mac Jones’ low block on Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Eli Apple in Saturday’s game at Gillette Stadium.
Apple has already come out and labeled the New England Patriots quarterback’s block as a “dirty play.” The NFL is reportedly reviewing the play with the possibility of disciplinary action to follow.
Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk wrote:
“Per a source with knowledge of the situation, the league will review for potentially discipline the hit to Apple’s lower legs on Monday, Tuesday at the latest. A suspension is currently believed to be unlikely, but it is one of the potential punishments.”
The play occurred during a fumble return attempt by Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt. Jones could be seen making an off-the-ball low block on Apple, who was trailing the runner. The pass was deemed as incomplete, and the play was ultimately called back.
But that still didn’t shake the fact that Apple believed something nefarious happened.
“Of course I did [notice it]. He tripped me,” said Apple, via NESN.com. “I thought it was a dirty play. He’s done that before, I’ve seen it.”
Not sure about this move from Mac Jones. pic.twitter.com/NlXdkknko8
— Michael Hurley (@michaelFhurley) December 24, 2022
A possible suspension even being on the table is something to keep an eye on as the league makes its decision. Shockingly enough, the Patriots still hold the cards to their own playoff destiny in their Week 17 showdown with the Miami Dolphins.
So the mere possibility of not having Jones under center is a big deal.
