Saints’ Nathan Shepherd Incurs Penalty for Actions Against Chargers’ Herbert

NFL Fines Saints’ Nathan Shepherd for Unnecessary Roughness

On Saturday, the NFL slapped a fine of $11,817 on New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Nathan Shepherd. This was in response to an act of unnecessary roughness against the Los Angeles Chargers. Shepherd was accused by the Chargers players of deliberately trying to cause injury to their quarterback Justin Herbert during Los Angeles’s 26-8 victory on the previous Sunday.

The Incident Involving Shepherd and Justin Herbert

In the incident, Shepherd seemed to twist Herbert’s right ankle, even after taking him to the ground. Bradley Bozeman, the Chargers’ center, swiftly jumped on top of Shepherd, pushing him away from Herbert. Both Shepherd and Bozeman were penalized for unnecessary roughness, however, Bozeman did not receive a fine.

Defending Nathan Shepherd and Looking Forward

Despite the accusations, Saints coach Dennis Allen stood up for Shepherd on the following Monday. He argued that Shepherd was merely trying to wrap up the quarterback without knowing if he still held the ball. Allen asserted there was no malicious intent in Shepherd’s actions.

Meanwhile, Bozeman was given a game ball by Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh for his efforts to protect Herbert. Herbert himself expressed his gratitude for Bozeman’s actions.

Upcoming Match Against the Carolina Panthers

Currently, the Saints, with a record of 2-6, are hoping to break a six-game losing streak in their upcoming match against the Carolina Panthers. Unfortunately, running back Jamaal Williams has been ruled out and did not travel with the squad. Additionally, wide receiver Bub Means and running back Kendre Miller were placed on the injured reserve list on Saturday, marking Miller’s second stint on IR this season.