When Joe Andreessen was drafted by the Buffalo Bills six months ago, he likely never imagined he’d be at the center of controversy involving a league fine and the support of a team legend. But that’s exactly where the young linebacker finds himself.
The recent Buffalo Bulls graduate has played in just five NFL games, all as a backup, with three tackles to his name. Yet, the league has already issued a financial penalty against him as part of an on-field fine system that fans, players, and analysts are calling unfair.
The controversy erupted in Week 8 during the Bills’ 31-10 victory over the Seattle Seahawks. Late in the third quarter, Andreessen took down Laviska Shenault Jr. in a hard-hitting play. While officials didn’t penalize him during the game, a review led to a $4,421.29 fine for unnecessary roughness.
Social media quickly reacted, with many fans calling out what they dubbed the NFL’s “broken system.” The incident caught the attention of one of Buffalo’s most beloved former players, who decided to step in.
A hero without a cape
In response to a post on X (formerly Twitter) by ESPN’s Bills reporter Alaina Getzenberg detailing the fine, former quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick didn’t just come to Andreessen’s defense-he offered to pay the fine himself.
“DM me Joe’s info and I’ll pay the fine for him. Can’t be taking money away from Mr. Buffalo,” Fitzpatrick responded. It’s not yet confirmed whether he received the information he requested, but the gesture only deepened fans’ admiration for the former QB.
A statue for Fitzpatrick
Fans were quick to flood social media with praise. “Not all heroes wear capes. Although I have a feeling you might have a cape somewhere,” one fan joked.
Another went a bit further, saying, “Fitz, someday you’ll have a statue in Buffalo. It might not be officially sanctioned by the Bills, but it’ll be there because of things like this. You’re the best.”
One fan summed up the outpouring of support, writing, “You are an amazing man. Buffalo through and through, even though you’re [not] from there. Thank you from all of us! You are the best!”
Andreessen and the Bills will face the Miami Dolphins this Sunday, with fans eagerly watching to see what unfolds in this feel-good saga.
