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Steelers LB Patrick Queen Fined by NFL in Controversial Decision After “Normal” Hit on Browns QB Dillon Gabriel

Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen has found himself at the center of controversy after the NFL handed him a hefty fine for what many believe was a routine defensive play in Week 6 against the Cleveland Browns.

The incident occurred when Queen charged toward rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel, disrupting his throwing lane during a blitz. The hit appeared clean and within the flow of play, but officials ruled it as “forcible contact to the head and neck area” — drawing immediate backlash from fans and analysts alike.

“If that’s a penalty, then defenders might as well stop playing football,” one former Steelers player commented. “Queen didn’t hit dirty — he just did his job.”

Despite widespread criticism, the NFL announced that Patrick Queen has been fined $23,186, one of the largest fines issued in Week 6. The league classified the play under “Unnecessary Roughness”, even though replays clearly showed no malicious intent.

This decision has sparked frustration among Steelers fans who feel the league is softening the game and penalizing physical — but fair — defensive football.

“I play with intensity, not recklessness,” Queen said after the news broke. “If defending my territory gets me fined, then so be it. I’m not apologizing for playing hard.”

While Dillon Gabriel escaped serious injury, the fine reignited a broader debate about whether the NFL’s recent emphasis on safety has come at the cost of the sport’s physical integrity — especially for defenders like Queen who thrive on toughness and timing.

Eagles Legend Wants to Withdraw from Eagles Hall of Fame If Kevin Patullo Isn't Fired
Can you believe it? A living legend of the Philadelphia Eagles, LeSean McCoy, is "rebelling" and threatening to withdraw from the Eagles Hall of Fame – the place that honors his great contributions! The reason? All because of offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo! What's happening with this legendary team? Read now for the hottest NFL "drama"! On his Speakeasy show, McCoy "dropped a bomb" with a shocking statement: “Take me off. Nobody has ever asked. I’m going to say ‘Mr. Lurie, it’s either me or Kevin’. If Kevin is not fired, put 25 back out there on the street.” (Translation: "Remove me. No one has ever asked. I'm going to say 'Mr. Lurie, it's either me or Kevin'. If Kevin isn't fired, put number 25 back on the street.") Number 25 – McCoy's legendary jersey number – could be "kicked out" of the Hall of Fame if Patullo remains in position? This isn't a joke, but a direct challenge to team owner Jeffrey Lurie! This "extreme" demand stems from extreme disappointment with the disastrous performance of the Eagles' offense under Patullo. The team that once "soared high" is now "free-falling" with silly mistakes, and McCoy isn't the only one "furious." Even Josh Reynolds "cursed" Patullo: “Kevin Patullo should never see the light of day again for the crimes he’s committed…” (Translation: "Kevin Patullo should never see the light of day again for the crimes he’s committed...") Is Patullo the "culprit" causing the Eagles to "sink"? Look at the "tragedy" of quarterback Jalen Hurts: In the most recent Monday Night Football game, he threw three interceptions – one of which was blamed on AJ Brown! Comparing this year's offensive stats to last year? Worlds apart! The problem isn't just the weak offensive line, but also the play-caller – Patullo is "miserably compared" to Kellen Moore, who once elevated the offense to new heights. The article points out: The Eagles are repeating a "historical curse" – the offense always "collapses" after losing a good coordinator, like in previous Super Bowl runs. Nick Sirianni is heavily criticized for the decision to hire Patullo: "A fatal mistake"! 👀 Eagles legend LeSean McCoy says if #Eagles do not fire OC Kevin Patullo he wants out of Hall of Fame “Take me off. Nobody has ever asked. I’m going to say ‘Mr. Lurie, it’s either me or Kevin’. If Kevin is not fired, put 25 back out there on the street”📸 @speakeasytlkshw pic.twitter.com/DcOkLiQejA — Jeff Skversky (@JeffSkversky) December 10, 2025 And the "darkest" data: In shotgun formation (51 plays), the Eagles only achieved 4.2 yards/play, 2.2 yards/rush, 5.2 yards/pass, with 4 "stupid" interceptions. But under center (15 plays)? Explosive with 10.2 yards/play, 8.8 yards/rush, 16.0 yards/pass, and 0 interceptions! Clearly, the offense performs "miraculously" better when balanced – so why is Patullo still "stubbornly persisting" with the outdated play style? Eagles fans are "boiling with rage": Will the team listen to McCoy and "deal with" Patullo to save the season? This drama is "exploding" on social media! McCoy – with his illustrious career at the Eagles – is he really withdrawing from the Hall of Fame? Or is this a "ploy" to push for change? Who will Jeffrey Lurie choose: The legend or the "culprit"? Don't miss out – follow now to see the "shocking" outcome of the Eagles' internal war! What do you think, comment below!