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Chargers Teair Tart Gets Disciplined by NFL for Slapping Travis Kelce


The Los Angeles Chargers took an early-season “deduction” as defensive lineman Teair Tart was fined $12,172 for an open-hand slap to the front of Travis Kelce’s helmet during the Week 1 opener at Corinthians Arena in São Paulo, Brazil. The amount aligns with the league’s schedule for a first-offense “striking” violation.

The incident occurred in the third quarter after a tangled blocking exchange. Kelce shoved Tart away, and Tart answered with an open-palm swat at the 10-time Pro Bowler. Officials immediately assessed a 15-yard unnecessary roughness penalty but did not eject Tart. After the Chargers’ 27–21 win, Tart posted a trolling message about Kelce on social media, further inflaming the debate.

Source citations: ESPN (Kris Rhim) confirms the $12,172 fine and game context; the NFL’s “Accountability: Fines & Appeals” schedule outlines the first-offense penalty for striking; roundups from Reuters, Sports Illustrated, and Bleacher Report detail the Tart–Kelce incident and the league’s postgame discipline following the São Paulo season opener. Watch here: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/46237382/chargers-teair-tart-fined-slapping-travis-kelce

Tart, 28, went undrafted in 2020 and signed with the Chargers before the 2024 season. Last year he played all 17 games, recording 29 tackles, two passes defended, one interception, one forced fumble, and one sack. This incident does not carry a suspension, but it marks his discipline file—repeat offenses can trigger stiffer penalties under NFL policy.

Tension between these teams is nothing new. A few seasons ago, another Chargers defender went viral for a body-slam on Kelce. As AFC West rivals, the Chargers and Chiefs will meet again in Week 15 in Los Angeles, and the “Kelce vs. Bolts front” storyline will be front and center.

Ravens Update Quarterback Depth Amid Controversies - Re-signed Pro Bowl Star to QB2
Baltimore, MD – October 7, 2025 Following Cooper Rush's disappointing performance in the humiliating 10-44 loss to the Houston Texans on Saturday (October 6), the Baltimore Ravens are facing intense debates about their quarterback room depth. With Lamar Jackson still nursing a hamstring injury and potentially missing the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams (scheduled for Week 6), the big question arises: Should Tyler Huntley – the former Ravens Pro Bowl star – get the starting nod over Rush? Huntley, 27 years old, was re-signed by the Ravens to the practice squad at the end of August 2025 and quickly elevated to QB2 for Week 5. He served as the Ravens' backup QB from 2020-2024, leading the team to the playoffs in 2022 and earning a Pro Bowl replacement spot thanks to his impressive performances filling in for Jackson. With experience in 9 starts (3-6 record), Huntley brings familiarity to the Ravens' offensive system, particularly his mobility and game-reading skills – something Rush seemed to lack in the Texans loss, where he completed only 18/34 passes with 1 TD and 2 INTs, resulting in the offense scoring just 10 points. The controversy exploded on social media, with the hashtag #RavensFlock divided. Many fans support Huntley: "Rush has proven he's not the solution. Huntley knows the system, knows how to win games – put him in!" (from account @RavensFanatic on X). Meanwhile, others defend Rush, arguing he needs time to adapt after transferring from the Dallas Cowboys: "Rush just started his first game for us. Don't rush to conclusions – he has playoff experience!" However, Rush's performance (only 189 passing yards, no big plays) has raised concerns about the depth chart, especially with Jackson possibly out for another 1-2 weeks. Head coach John Harbaugh hasn't commented directly, but in the post-Texans press conference, he hinted at a reevaluation: "We have multiple quality options at QB. Tyler is ready, and we'll choose the one best suited to win." ESPN insiders report that Huntley has been practicing fully and performing well, potentially being promoted to official QB2 if Jackson misses the Rams game – a crucial matchup for the Ravens (currently 1-4) to salvage their season. Signing Huntley – a Pro Bowl star – is seen as a smart move amid the controversies, boosting the Ravens' depth and flexibility. If Huntley gets "the nod" to start, it could be his chance to prove his value, just like his previous fill-ins for Jackson. Ravens fans are awaiting the decision – will "Snoop" (Huntley's nickname) return to save the team? Follow updates from baltimoreravens.com for more details. #RavensFlock #QBControversy