Bill Belichick's decision to grab an official as he left the field on Sunday night is going to cost him $50,000.

The NFL announced on Wednesday afternoon that Belichick has been fined $50,000 for his actions, which came just after the Ravens had beaten the Patriots 31-30 in a game that had players, coaches and fans of both teams ripping the NFL's replacement referees.

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Belichick's fine is the hardest any coach has been hit yet for actions toward the officials this season. Broncos coach John Fox was previously fined $30,000, Broncos defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio was fined $25,000 and Redskins offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan was fined $25,000.

Immediately following the game on Sunday, an obviously angry Belichick said he didn't see any reason he should be fined. A day later, Belichick softened his tone toward the officials, saying he meant no disrespect and just wanted to ask whether the Ravens' game-winning field goal would be reviewed on instant replay. The NFL's fine is a statement that no matter the reason, a coach putting his hands on the officials won't be tolerated.

NBC Pro Football Talk