DeMarcus Ware Fined for Roughing Alex Smith: Latest Details and Reaction

Denver Broncos linebacker DeMarcus Ware was fined more than $17,000 by the NFL on Friday for a low hit on Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith last week.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported that the fine—$17,363 to be exact—was for striking Smith below the knee area. Troy Renck of the Denver Post confirmed the punishment.

Ware was penalized on the play in question for roughing the passer in the first quarter of the Broncos' 31-24 win after hitting Smith during a 24-yard pass play to James O'Shaughnessy.

Robert Raiola of O'Connor Davies LLP noted a second violation of the same rule would cost the veteran pass-rusher double the amount, nearly $35,000.

While it was a close call to begin with, the NFL places a major emphasis on protecting quarterbacks. Ware, who has tallied two sacks in as many games, understands that after more than a decade of chasing them down for the Dallas Cowboys and now the Broncos.

It's hard to imagine he'll change his approach because of the call. It comes down to trying to focus on the target area above the knees and below the shoulders. Of course, that's a lot easier said than done in the heat of battle.