Dante Wesley Suspended For Hit In Bucs Game

The Panthers' special team ace, Wesley ran down the field and threw his shoulder in Smith's head and neck area. Smith received a concussion from the blow.

Smith was back to return the punt just seconds before the end of the half, but Wesley got there well before the ball did. Replays showed that Smith did not signal fair catch as was originally thought. If you have not seen the hit, you can view it here.

Wesley was ejected from the game. You may read more about the play here.

The NFL called the hit an act of flagrant violation of player safety rules. This season the NFL has been emphasizing protecting players head and neck areas.

The NFL has been under-fire for their so-called "Brady Rule" and the questionable calls from it. Read more here. This hit though was definitely a nasty one and is an example of why the rule is in place.

With Wesley's suspension on Sunday, he will miss more than the game against the Buffalo Bills. He will also lose over $36,000 in salary. The Panthers will also be without a key tackler on special teams.

Written by Denise Clay
Hickory, NC
Exclusive to HULIQ