The NFL isn’t playing games when it comes to enforcing its rules. The league intends to protect its players from unnecessary harm and this rule is proving to be costly for Robert Kraft’s side. Add the fact that the team fired their head coach Jerod Mayo and is currently looking to fill the role, a lot seems to be going on for the New England Patriots. But what’s their latest issue? Well, the Patriots’ defensive captain Deatrich Wise Jr. has found himself in the league’s crosshairs yet again.

He has been fined $16,883 fine for roughing the passer with a blow to the head/neck. It was a result of Wise hitting Bills quarterback Mitchell Trubisky in the first quarter in Week 18. The foul took place on a second-and-7 play from the New England 41-yard line. And those 15 yards helped the Bills score a touchdown.

This falls under Rule 12 Section 2 Article 11, which states: “Because the act of passing often puts the quarterback (or any other player attempting a pass) in a position where he is particularly vulnerable to injury, special rules against roughing the passer apply. The Referee has principal responsibility for enforcing these rules. Any physical acts against a player who is in a passing posture (i.e. before, during, or after a pass) which, in the Referee’s judgment, are unwarranted by the circumstances of the play will be called as fouls.”

In Week 18, Wise Jr. was the only Patriots player to get fined. However, this isn’t his first fine this season. He was previously penalized $16,883 (the same amount as this time) for a horse-collar tackle on Kyler Murray in Week 15. While the Patriots value his on-field aggression, critics argue it’s costing the team both yards and credibility.

New England Patriots: Here’s a list of all their fines during the regular season:

• Week 3: Rhamondre Stevenson was fined $11,255 for unnecessary roughness (facemask).
• Week 5: Keion White was fined $9,836 for unnecessary roughness (horse-collar tackle) and an additional $9,836 for roughing the passer.
• Week 9: Keion White was fined $22,511 for unnecessary roughness (horse-collar tackle).
• Week 11: Rhamondre Stevenson was fined $11,817 for a chop block.
• Week 12: Vederian Lowe was fined $5,472 for unnecessary roughness (blindside block)
• Week 15: Antonio Gibson was fined $14,805 for unnecessary roughness (use of the helmet) while Wise was fined $16,883 for horse-collar tackle.
• Week 18: Wise was fined $16,883 for roughing the passer (blow to the head/neck).

The NFL’s fine announcement comes as the league continues emphasizing player safety. 24 plays out of 2,587 resulted in fines in Week 18 alone. This underscores the league’s commitment to accountability.

Meanwhile, Wise has proven himself a leader off the field. His foundation, Wise Up, has launched initiatives like Bridge 2 Trades. It provides underserved Boston youth with pathways to skilled careers. Yet some question whether his contributions to the community outweigh his on-field lapses as fines pile up. The timing of this controversy couldn’t be worse for a team searching for stability under a new system.

Interesting Fact: Until 2020, Antonio Brown, who once played for the Patriots, was amongst the top 10 most fined NFL players. The wide receiver was fined almost every season for things like excessive celebrations and late hits. His total fine amount by December 2020 was $394,127.

How Mike Vrabel’s return could reshape the Patriots…

Enter Mike Vrabel. Reports suggest the Patriots are negotiating with the franchise legend to take on a leadership role, possibly head coach. If true, Vrabel’s return could signal a shift in culture. His presence would undoubtedly challenge current leaders like Wise to elevate their game and set a stronger example.

Vrabel’s name carries weight in New England. He is a former linebacker with three Super Bowl rings. And he embodies the grit and discipline the Patriots have long been known for. His potential return comes after a tough season where New England finished 4-13 under first-year head coach Jerod Mayo. However, Vrabel’s tenure in Tennessee showcased his ability to lead.

Mike Vrabel guided the Titans to a 54-45 record over six seasons. And he earned a reputation for tough, disciplined teams. The Patriots desperately need that kind of energy after a year filled with penalties and missed opportunities.

If Vrabel takes the reins, Wise’s role as a captain might face added scrutiny. Leaders will need to adapt to Vrabel’s no-nonsense approach, which prioritizes accountability. Ultimately, Kraft’s negotiations with Vrabel could bring much-needed direction. Paired with Deatrich Wise Jr.’s off-field efforts, there’s hope for a culture shift that balances discipline with leadership. For now, all eyes are on the next chapter of New England’s storied franchise.

The team has also interviewed Ben Johnson, Byron Leftwich, and Pep Hamilton for their head coach opening.