Cowboys’ Elliott first to be fined this season for helmet-led hit

Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott became the first offensive player this season to be fined for lowering his helmet to initiate contact, ESPN reported.

The NFL prohibits players from using their helmets as weapons, a rule implemented last spring that prevents players, specifically running backs, from knocking over defenders by lowering their heads.

Elliott is appealing the $26,739 fine stemming from contact with Eagles defender Corey Graham on Sunday.

It’s the second time in a four-week span that the Cowboys’ RB has been punished by the league, following a $13,368 fine for unsportsmanlike conduct for celebrating a touchdown with a $21 donation into a Salvation Army kettle.