NFL fines tackle for leg whip

TAMPA -- For the third consecutive week, a Buc was fined by the NFL for dangerous play.

Left offensive tackle Roman Oben was fined $5,000 Wednesday for a leg whip on Rams defensive end Grant Wistrom during the second quarter Monday. No penalty was called.

"Grant ... went behind me, and I turned around awkwardly (and went low) to get him," Oben said. "They said it was a leg whip, but they are getting ridiculous with that stuff."

Oben said while he understands the NFL is trying to protect players, he must protect his quarterback.

"I want to keep the guys off Brad Johnson," Oben said. "If I have to dive at a guy, then that's what I've got to do."

Defensive tackle Warren Sapp was fined $5,000 for hitting Saints lineman LeCharles Bentley in the head during the first week. Sapp also was fined $10,000 for body slamming Ravens running back Chester Taylor the next week.

Safety Dexter Jackson was fined $5,000 in Week 2 for spearing.

Asked if he believes the NFL is becoming too paranoid, Bucs coach Jon Gruden said, "I'm not going to comment or I'll get fined."