NFL rescinds Joe Mixon's $25,000 fine for officials criticism

Houston Texans running back Joe Mixon successfully appealed a $25,000 fine imposed by the NFL for comments made after his team's playoff loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. The fine stemmed from a misunderstanding where Mixon's comments were conflated with a critical remark made by former NFL player T.J. Houshmandzadeh. NFL appeals officer Chris Palmer ruled that Mixon's statements did not constitute public criticism of the officials, acknowledging the interpretative nature of his words. After the appeal hearing, Palmer emphasized the shared responsibility for maintaining the integrity of the game. Mixon's actual comments reflected frustration but were notably more measured, stating, 'You can never leave it into the refs' hands.' The league's initial misattribution and subsequent fine have drawn criticism for its handling of the situation.