The NFL has fined Bears linebacker Cassius Marsh nearly $6,000 for unsportsmanlike conduct in the Steelers' 29-27 victory over Chicago Monday night.
Marsh drew a penalty in the game for taunting after sacking Ben Roethlisberger. Marsh, released by the Steelers at the end of training camp, did a karate kick, then took several steps toward the Pittsburgh sideline, stopping to pose as he stared down the sideline.
The fourth quarter play resulted in an automatic first down for the Steelers, who would go on to kick a field goal on the drive.
Taunting has been a point of emphasis by the NFL this season. And referee Tony Corrente said via pool report following the Steelers' victory he felt Marsh's actions rose to the level of deserving a penalty.
"I saw the player, after he made a big play, run toward the bench area of the Pittsburgh Steelers and posture in such a way that I felt he was taunting them," Corrente said.
Corrente and Marsh inadvertently bumped on as Marsh turned and headed back toward the Chicago sideline, causing Marsh to say he felt Corrente should be disciplined for making contact with him.
NFL Senior Vice President of Officiating Perry Fewell released a video regarding that call, and some others, as part of his regular officiating review this week on Twitter, backing Corrente's decision.
SVP of @NFL Officiating Perry Fewell covers plays from Week 9: pic.twitter.com/vXZzsnup46
— NFL Officiating (@NFLOfficiating) November 10, 2021
The Bears (3-6) are on a bye this week, while the Steelers (5-3) host the Lions at Heinz Field Sunday.
