Broncos' Terrance Knighton says he was fined for using racial slur

Denver Broncos defensive tackle Terrance Knighton said Wednesday that he was fined for using a racial slur during a game against the New York Jets last Sunday, according to TheDenver Post.

Knighton was fined $11,025 by the NFL for "inappropriate language" and said he used the slur after the Broncos scored on a touchdown catch by Julius Thomas in the second quarter. Knighton was flagged on the play for unsportsmanlike conduct.

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According to the Post, Knighton does not plan to appeal the fine. The Broncos won the game 31-17.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick received the same fine for language last month. He allegedly used a racial slur towards Chicago Bears defensive lineman Lamarr Houston during a game, but maintained that he never did.

Kaepernick appealed the fine and on Wednesday the NFL reportedly reduced it by half after finding no evidence of a racial slur being used. Half of the fine was upheld because of "general profane language." The NFLPA tweeted that it was disappointed the fine wasn't completely eliminated.

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Over the offseason, the NFL announced it would be emphasizing officials calling a foul "if there are racial slurs or statements regarding another player’s sexual orientation, or even bating and insulting with verbal abuse."

- Molly Geary