Cowboys Player Could Face NFL Fine After Controversial Bucky Irving Play

A controversial tackle during Thursday’s Cowboys vs. Buccaneers game has put Dallas defensive back Reddy Steward on watch for a potential NFL fine. The incident involved Tampa Bay running back Bucky Irving after he caught a touchdown pass in the first half. Steward grabbed Irving around the hips and dropped his weight onto the runner’s legs, a technique that has drawn debate over whether it violates the NFL’s March 2024 ban on hip-drop tackles. Under the league’s policy, the first violation can cost $17,911, with $23,882 for a second. Officials did not penalize Steward in the game, and the NFL has not confirmed any fine. Tampa Bay won 24-16, improving to 1-4, with Irving rushing for a career-high 165 yards on 21 carries and scoring a receiving touchdown.