FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. -- Atlanta Falcons starting strong safety William Moore told ESPN.com he was fined "more than $23,000'' for his hit on Philadelphia Eagles receiver Jordan Matthews during the Falcons' 26-24 win Monday night.
Moore, who was not flagged on the third-quarter play, plans to appeal the fine. It appeared to be a helmet-to-helmet hit as Matthews came across the middle and caught a pass from Sam Bradford. Moore lined up and launched into Matthews, knocking the receiver back.
The actual fine for impermissible use of the helmet or for a hit on a defenseless player is $23,152.
Moore received a warning letter from the league last season regarding his illegal hits. He has been fined at least $97,000 the previous two seasons.
New Falcons coach Dan Quinn said the biggest emphasis for Moore going into this season would be proper tackling technique. Moore has been receptive to the change.
"It's not about whether I can tackle; it's about knowing when to form tackle and when to blow somebody up,'' Moore said. "I know that. But when you go into the game, your adrenaline is pumping and your mindset is to destroy. Something you get caught in the moment of thinking you can run straight through the guy and you need to settle down, gather, and make the proper tackle.''
Moore said he fully understands his illegal hits could eventually lead to a suspension, and that he plans to avoid such a scenario.