NFL tells ref actions against Barnett 'over the line'

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http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3169226

Green Bay Packers linebacker Nick Barnett will file a grievance against an NFL official for aggressively grabbing him around the neck and pulling him to the ground during Sunday's game against the Bears at Soldier Field, according to his agent.

Meanwhile, league sources tell ESPN that the official in question, umpire Jim Quirk, has been told he went "over the line" in restraining Barnett. A source said that NFL officiating director Mike Pereira warned Quirk by telephone that he should refrain from similar techniques when trying to break up a potential skirmish. No disciplinary action will be taken against Quirk, a source said, but that won't appease Barnett.

Who do the referees think they are, Tom Brady?

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http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3171273

The NFL has fined official Jim Quirk a game check -- $8,150 -- for inappropriate contact with Green Bay Packers linebacker Nick Barnett on Sunday.

Quirk was summoned to NFL offices Friday to meet with commissioner Roger Goodell and NFL executive vice president of football operations Ray Anderson. In determining the penalty, the league took into account previous incidents, including Quirk's contact Dec. 16 with Atlanta Falcons fullback Jason Snelling on a kickoff return.

Goodell has informed Barnett and Packers head coach Mike McCarthy of the punishment. Barnett's agent, Chuck Price, who had planned to file a grievance with the NFL over Quirk's behavior, told ESPN's Chris Mortensen, "This action is more than satisfactory. There is now no reason to pursue a grievance."

Looks like NFL officials are not immune to punishment.