NFL news roundup: Ndamukong Suh fined, Jay Ratliff release and statement

The NFL fined Ndamukong Suh again, Jay Ratliff released a statement following his release by the Cowboys, and more news from Wednesday.

By James Brady@jamesbradyisme Oct 17, 2013, 8:00am EDT

Detroit Lions defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh was fined $31,000 for a hit on Cleveland Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden in Week 6. There was no flag on the play, but the league is insisting that Suh used his helmet as the principal point of contact. It doesn't quite look that way on film, however, as Suh's helmet doesn't impact first and it was hardly a viscous tackle. This might be an appeal that the oft-fined defensive tackle could win.

Here's what else you might have missed from Wednesday:

Ratliff releases statement

Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Jay Ratliff was released on Wednesday and put out a statement. He was classy throughout, thanking the Cowboys and the team's fans. Ratliff wasn't a good fit for the new defensive scheme this season and is dealing with a significant hamstring injury. Ratliff isn't ready to call it a career, however, saying that he always hoped to end it in Dallas, but that it is now time to move on.

NFLPA files grievance for Hernandez

The NFL Players Association filed a grievance on behalf of former New England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez on Wednesday. The NFLPA is seeking the guaranteed money in Hernandez's contract for 2013 and 2014, something the players believes he is entitled to. Despite the fact that he is currently in jail, the NFLPA filed this grievance due to his contract. They have to set a precedent by always defending the player.

Manning to IR

Houston Texans safety Danieal Manning was placed on injured reserve on Wednesday. There is no return designation in this move, as Manning fractured his fibia in Sunday's loss to the St. Louis Rams. He'll need surgery, and will miss the remainder of the season. It's been a tough year for the Texans in general, and it will get tougher with this loss.

Freeman to start

The Minnesota Vikings will roll with quarterback Josh Freeman for their Week 7 matchup against the New York Giants. Freeman signed with the team just two weeks ago, but was inactive for Week 6 as he had yet to pick up enough of the playbook. Neither Christian Ponder nor Matt Cassel will take the Vikings anywhere this season, so Freeman will get the opportunity to redeem himself after a messy situation in Tampa Bay and attempt to earn a new contract this offseason.