Teair Tart Challenges NFL Fine, Calls Discipline Toward Him and Travis Kelce “Unfair”
The opening week AFC showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers turned heated after defensive tackle Teair Tart (No. 90) struck Travis Kelce on the helmet during a second-quarter play. Officials flagged the incident for a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, though many were surprised Tart was not immediately ejected.
On the following day, the NFL announced a one-game suspension and a $15,000 fine for Tart, citing unsportsmanlike and unnecessary actions. The league framed the decision as a warning shot to deter future incidents — but Tart is pushing back. He has officially appealed, calling the punishment inconsistent and “unfair.”
They caught the Tart slap on Travis Kelce on hot mic #Chargers #BoltUp pic.twitter.com/oW4rpBzvmM
— Jason Dill (@TRICHERATOPS_) September 6, 2025
In his appeal, Tart insisted that both his move and Kelce’s reaction deserved equal scrutiny, arguing the league unfairly singled him out without considering the full exchange.
Kelce, however, chose to answer on the field. The veteran tight end broke loose for a 37-yard touchdown, a highlight that nearly shifted momentum toward Kansas City before Los Angeles held on for a 27-21 victory.
For the Chargers, Tart’s availability is pivotal. Losing him for Week 2 would leave an already thin defensive front more vulnerable. A decision from the NFL appeals office is expected within days.
The dispute has reignited debate over officiating and discipline in high-stakes rivalry games. Chiefs fans argue Tart should have been tossed from the game immediately, while Chargers supporters believe the suspension is excessive.
For now, the spotlight stays on Tart — and whether the NFL will stand firm or reduce its ruling.












