Cowboys Defensive Back Faces Review After Late Hit on Buccaneers Running Back
Why the Hit Drew Immediate Scrutiny from Officials
Dallas Cowboys defensive back Reddy Stew is under league review for a late hit on Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving during their Thursday Night Football matchup on October 8. The game marked the first meeting between the two teams since December 2024, when Dallas won 26-24 at AT&T Stadium. Stew’s hit occurred late in the fourth quarter as Irving was already down after a short gain, drawing immediate flags for unnecessary roughness. The play intensified an already heated contest between division rivals vying for playoff positioning.
Stew arrived well after Irving had been tackled by another defender, launching himself into the runner’s midsection with clear intent to punish rather than stop the play. Replay officials confirmed the contact came approximately 1.5 seconds after Irving was deemed down by the initial tackle, violating NFL rules protecting defenseless players. Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles expressed frustration postgame, stating the hit crossed the line between physical play and dangerous conduct. Cowboys defensive coordinator Dan Quinn acknowledged the timing appeared problematic but declined to speculate on potential discipline, emphasizing the team’s internal review process.
What Factors Will Influence the League’s Decision
The NFL’s player safety department will assess Stew’s disciplinary history, the force of impact, and whether the hit targeted a vulnerable area when determining any potential fine or suspension. Stew, a third-year defensive back, has no prior fines for unnecessary roughness this season but was flagged twice in 2023 for similar infractions. League precedent shows late hits arriving after a clear down-by-contact call often result in fines ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, with suspensions considered only for repeat offenders or egregious violations. Irving completed the drive and remained in the game, though he was later listed as questionable for the following week with a rib contusion.
Was Bucky Irving injured on the play? Irving stayed in the game after the hit but was subsequently limited in practice and listed as questionable for the Buccaneers’ next game due to rib discomfort, though no serious injury was diagnosed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Could Reddy Stew face a suspension? A suspension is unlikely given Stew’s clean recent record and the absence of prior similar offenses this season; a fine remains the most probable outcome if the league deems the violation warranting action.
How did the hit affect the game’s outcome? The penalty gave Tampa Bay a first down and extended their drive, which ultimately led to a field goal that narrowed Dallas’ lead to two points late in the fourth quarter, though the Cowboys held on to win.