NFL warns teams on faking injuries
Published 9:03 am Thursday, September 22, 2011
NEW YORK — To the fake handoff and fake field goals, add fake injuries.
The NFL sent a memo Wednesday to all 32 teams warning of fines, suspensions and loss of draft picks if the league determines players faked injuries during a game. Yet several players admit its an accepted practice, and some coaches hinted they are not above condoning phony injuries if it provides a competitive edge.
“I’ve been places where it has been (taught),” said Browns linebacker Scott Fujita, a member of the players’ union executive committee.
“They have a name for it and I’ve been places where it’s been pre-called.
I’ve been places where it’s one player who has been designated. Maybe I’m getting everyone in trouble, but I’m just being honest.”