NFL declines to penalize Tom Brady for voicing criticism of ejection
Tom Brady will not face repercussions from the NFL after expressing his disapproval of officials during Fox's broadcast of the Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions game on Sunday.
As a Fox Sports analyst, Brady made the controversial remarks when Detroit safety Brian Branch was ejected for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Green Bay wide receiver Bo Melton in the second quarter.
\"I am not a fan of that (ejection) call at all,\" Brady stated. \"While it is a penalty, there must be clear intent in a game of this magnitude.\"
Despite being a part owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, Brady is not permitted to make certain comments during broadcasts, including criticism of officials.
However, the NFL announced on Monday that Brady will not face consequences for his mild criticism.
According to NFL chief spokesman Brian McCarthy, \"The concern would arise if Tom made excessively critical comments about officiating or questioned the integrity of an official or the crew. That was not the case in this situation.\"
Brady acquired a 5% stake in the Raiders in October, but some owners were worried that his role as an analyst would create conflicts of interest. As a result, the NFL ruled in August that the legendary quarterback is not allowed to criticize officials or other teams in the league.
