Falcons' Robinson fined $40,000 for illegal hit
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}(Reuters) - Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dunta Robinson has been fined $40,000 by the National Football League (NFL) for his hit on Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jeremy Maclin in Sunday's game.
Maclin was considered to be in a "defenseless posture" and did not have time to protect himself when he was struck, the NFL said in a statement on Monday.
"Future offenses will result in an escalation of fines up to and including suspension," NFL Vice President of Football Operations Merton Hanks said in a letter to Robinson.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Robinson can appeal the fine.
Several playing-rules changes were approved by NFL clubs last March to enhance player safety, including expanded protection for defenseless players.
(This story corrects Maclin's position in first paragraph)
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}(Reporting by Simon Evans in Miami; Editing by Frank Pingue)