Jaguars Rookie BJ Green Fined for Controversial Hit on Justin Herbert

Jacksonville Jaguars undrafted rookie edge rusher B.J. Green II has been fined $17,389 for a hit on Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert during Week 11. Green appeared to record what would have been the first sack of his NFL career, but the play was called back for roughing the passer with offsetting penalties.

The news immediately sparked discussion across the league, as many questioned whether the hit warranted a penalty and whether the rookie should be penalized for what appeared to be a clean tackle.

Jaguars Dominate Chargers Amid Offensive Line Struggles

Despite the controversy, the Jaguars had a dominant performance, blowing out the Chargers 35-6. Jacksonville’s defense looked unstoppable, consistently pressuring Herbert and forcing multiple negative plays that disrupted the Chargers’ rhythm. Green’s near-sack was just one example of the defensive pressure that contributed to the dominant win.

The Chargers’ offensive line struggled heavily throughout the game, a point highlighted by PFSN’s OL Impact Rankings. Los Angeles recorded a score of 63.2, their worst single-game offensive line performance of the season by far, and one of the lowest scores from any team this year.

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The line allowed consistent pressure and failed to protect the quarterback or open running lanes, which allowed Green and other Jaguars defenders to make impactful plays and dominate the backfield.

The Controversy Around the Penalty

The roughing the passer call was highly controversial. Many analysts and fans argued that Green’s hit on Herbert was clean and didn’t warrant the flag.

Former star pass rusher J.J. Watt publicly criticized the penalty, stating, “It’s hard enough to get to the QB as it is, let’s not take away clean sacks from guys.” Fans across the NFL, including some Chargers fans, have voiced frustration on social media, insisting that the play should have been counted as a sack and that the NFL is getting “soft.”

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Despite widespread disagreement, the penalty was enforced, and the league issued a fine to the rookie edge rusher. The decision has brought added attention to both Green’s play and how the NFL evaluates quarterback hits, sparking debates about consistency in officiating across the league.

Dealing with the Outcome and Looking Ahead

Green must now deal with the results, including a financial penalty and the loss of his first career sack. Fortunately, Jaguars veteran Josh Hines-Allen has stepped in to support him, volunteering to cover the fine and emphasizing the importance of taking care of younger players.

The rookie will go on fighting to get his first career sack a second time. Jacksonville has looked strong defensively, and Green’s motor will be helpful as the Jaguars look to maintain their momentum from last week’s win. Green has an opportunity to go from an undrafted rookie to a legitimate contributor to a playoff team.