The NFL has fined Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Troy Polamalu $10,000 for violating the league's policy regarding in-game cell phone use during Pittsburgh's 17-13 win against the Jacksonville Jaguars last Sunday. Polamalu left the game due to feeling concussion-like symptoms and borrowed a phone from the team's medical staff so he could call his wife to assure her of his health.
The NFL policy Polamalu violated forbids use of cell phones, PDAs, and other electronic equipment on the sidelines from 90 minutes prior to kickoff through the end of the game. According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, coach Mike Tomlin said earlier this week he hoped the league would not fine his star cornerback, given the circumstances under which he made the call.
Polamalu received medical clearance to play this Sunday against the Arizona Cardinals. He'll take the field, albeit a bit lighter in the wallet.
The fine brings Polamalu's losses this season to $25,000; the NFL docked him $15,000 for a horsecollar tackle against Ricky Williams during the Steelers' season-opening loss to the Baltimore Ravens.