The NFL is investigating New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones for a potential illegal hit against Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Eli Apple.
The controversial tackle happened with 6:17 left in the fourth quarter during the Bengals’ 22-18 win over the Patriots on Saturday.
“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,” Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk wrote. “A suspension is currently believed to be unlikely, but it is one of the potential punishments.”
Apple sent Jones a brutal message following the win.
“Of course, I did (notice it). He tripped me,” Apple told NESN.com after Cincinnati’s Christmas Eve win. “I thought it was a dirty play. He’s done that before. I’ve seen it.”
Apple did not clarify which other incidents he was referring to.
“Yeah, well, they’re going home now.”
Jones completed 21 of his 33 pass attempts against the Bengals. That was good for 240 yards, two touchdowns and zero interceptions.
Jones and the Patriots are next in action on New Year’s Day when they host the Miami Dolphins in an AFC East matchup. Oddsmakers list the Dolphins as 3.5-point favorites over the Patriots in that game.
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