Specifically, on a pass play on Sunday, Smith engaged in helmet-to-helmet contact with Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Anquan Boldin, who was in a defenseless position at the time contact was made.
The suspension will sideline Smith for the Jets’ game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday, October 12 following the Jets bye on October 5. The $50,000 fine includes the game check Smith will forfeit for the week of his suspension.
Smith’s actions violated Rule 12, Section 2, Article 8(g) of the NFL Official Playing Rules, which prohibit:
“…using any part of a player’s helmet (including the top/crown and forehead/‘hairline’ parts) or facemask to butt, spear, or ram an opponent violently or unnecessarily; although such violent or unnecessary use of the helmet is impermissible against any opponent, game officials will give special attention in administering this rule to protect those players who are in virtually defenseless postures.”