Josh Norman responds to $25K fine for ripping ref

Redskins CB Josh Norman was fined $25,000 this week after his harsh criticism of NFL official Brad Freeman, who worked Washington's tie with Cincinnati in London. Norman was notified about the fine shortly before making appearance on FOX NFL Kickoff on Sunday, which allowed him to respond to the league's punishment.

Here's what Norman had to say:

Norman wasn't the only NFL player frustrated with last week's officiating. Former Panthers teammate Cam Newton claimed that he no longer felt safe on the field after refs missed an obvious roughing the passer call during Carolina's Week 8 win over Arizona. Newton, unlike Norman, was not fined for his critical comments. Norman had something to say about that, as well.

There is a clear difference between Newton's and Norman's comments: Norman made it personal by calling out a single official, which was never going to sit well with the referees union. Newton did not even point out a particular officiating crew, which is ultimately why he was able to avoid a fine.