Olivier Vernon Fined $37,363 for Hits on Titans QB Marcus Mariota

Miami Dolphins defensive end Olivier Vernon was reportedly fined more than $37,000 for a pair of roughing-the-passer infractions in last week's victory over the Tennessee Titans.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported the exact amount was $37,363—$20,000 for a head shot and $17,363 for a low hit on Marcus Mariota. Tennessee's quarterback suffered a sprained MCL on the latter play and is out for Week 7, per Jim Wyatt of Titans Online.

Vernon stated Wednesday that he had been made aware of the punishment, though he didn't reveal the amount at the time, and planned to appeal, according to Omar Kelly of the Sun Sentinel.

"Those [fines] aren't cheap, so why would I be doing it intentionally?" he said. "This is football. It's a physical sport."

The report also noted Vernon said the only reason he ended up going low on Mariota was because Titans tackle Taylor Lewan held his arm and pulled him down during the rush.

Mariota stated after the game that the defensive lineman did apologize, and the quarterback didn't believe there was any intent involved, according to Paul Kuharsky of ESPN.com.

"I don't think it was malicious," Mariota said.

Vernon will hope that lack of intent helps his cause on appeal. That said, quarterbacks are heavily protected by the rules when standing in the pocket. That leaves a small hit zone for defenders, and the punishment is harsh when striking them too high or too low.

The Dolphins return to action Sunday against the Houston Texans. It wasn't immediately announced when Vernon's appeal would be heard.