On the same day Dashon Goldson's one-game suspension was overturned, the Tampa Bay safety took a verbal hit from across the Gulf of Mexico.
Goldson originally was suspended for a helmet-to-helmet hit on New Orleans running back Darren Sproles. But, on appeal, the suspension was reduced to a $100,000 fine. Since 2010, Goldson has been called for a league-high 15 personal fouls. He also was fined $30,000 for an illegal hit in the season opener against the New York Jets.
"He’s had a lot of those,’’ Saints quarterback Drew Brees told the New Orleans media Wednesday. “He certainly has no regard for the rules in the middle. He’s going after guys' heads. You can see it.
“So, obviously $100,000 is a pretty hefty fine. And I’m sure if it continues to happen it will be even greater punishment than that.’’
In Tampa Bay, Goldson told reporters he’s not trying to hurt opponents.
“I’m an aggressive player,’’ Goldson said. “We all know that across the league. I’ve never tried to hurt anybody. I try to keep my hits within the rules. And that’s what I’ll do week in and week out. I have to make sure I get guys to the ground, but at the same time I have to be careful.’’
Goldson acknowledged his hits will be under the microscope going forward.
“I know there are going to be a lot of eyes on me from now on,’’ Goldson said. “And that’s OK. I just have to be smart. I’m not trying to hurt my team and I’m definitely not trying to hurt myself with the way I play.
“I have to take my shots when they present themselves but I have to do it clean. No launching, of course, no hats on hats. Just make sure I get the body down on the ground and do it properly.’’
