Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon has been fined $100,000 after a sideline incident involving running back Emari Demercado. The altercation occurred during the Cardinals’ recent 22-21 loss to the Tennessee Titans. Sources close to the situation revealed the penalty but requested anonymity, as the team did not publicly disclose the fine.
Details of the Incident
During the game, Demercado’s fumble proved crucial. He appeared to have a 72-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter that could have extended the Cardinals’ lead. However, he dropped the ball just before crossing the goal line, resulting in a fumble out of the back of the end zone. This miscue shifted possession to the Titans at their 20-yard line.
Following the fumble, video footage surfaced showing Gannon visibly upset, yelling at Demercado and appearing to jostle him. Gannon later acknowledged his behavior was out of character, stating he had regretted the incident.
Coach’s Response
After the game, Gannon addressed the issue with his team. He expressed his remorse and extended an apology to both Demercado and the entire squad. “I just told them I let the moment of what happened get the better of me,” Gannon remarked.
The NFL has confirmed that there would be no further disciplinary action against Gannon following the incident. Demercado will also not face any repercussions for his error on the field.
Cardinals’ Recent Performance
The Cardinals currently hold a 2-3 record, having lost three consecutive games, all decided by last-second field goals. Notably, this marks the first time in NFL history that a team has suffered three losses in such a manner, as noted by Sportradar.
About Jonathan Gannon
Gannon is in his third year as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. Previously, he served as the defensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles for two seasons. Under his leadership, the team has been striving to improve its performance, particularly following disappointing recent results.
- Fine Amount: $100,000
- Incident: Sideline altercation with Emari Demercado
- Game Result: Cardinals 21, Titans 22
- Team Record: 2-3
- Consecutive Losses: 3 (on last-second field goals)
The Cardinals aim to overcome these challenges as they look to regain their footing in the upcoming games. With Gannon at the helm, the focus will be on resolving issues on and off the field to improve team dynamics and performance.
