The NFL is the league that fines players for having their jerseys untucked.  Chin straps unbuckled.  And socks not pulled up high enough.

Now add the investigation of two Packers defenders, believed to be Al Harris and Charles Woodson, for offering 500 bucks to defensive linemen, if they stopped Vikings RB Adrian Peterson shy of 100 yards rushing, and the Panthers if they rushed for 60 yards or less.

In an e-mail to me, NFL Spokesperson Greg Aiello confirmed to me that "this is not something that would lead to suspensions."  And to Ted Thompson's credit, the Packers GM told me by phone that ultimately the communication problem stems back to him, because he knew of the rule that prohibited this, but the players weren't aware of it.

But at the risk of being a pom pon waver for the team, what's the big deal?  Why is this any different than the Packers pick pool, where the defender who has the most INT's in practice gets the pot?  Or when quarterbacks and running backs buy their offensive linemen watches, meals, or other items for blocking well?

It's a friendly thing among teammates, an incentive to play better.  It's not a hit list type of situation like Charles Martin, where guys are taking opponents out.  It's a comaraderie building among teammates.  C'mon, some NFL players make a lot of money, and don't want to part with it...so that's impressive in and of itself.

Like I showed on Packers Extra, Aaron Kampman is the highest paid defensive lineman and makes a base salary of $1.9 million.  Johnny Jolly the lowest paid at $360,000.  So it's sad to say, but 500 bones to them...is like 5 to us.

Yes, it's technically against the rules, where players pay other players to make plays.  And the NFL is afraid of situations where the salary cap is circumvented.  For example, Randy Moss agrees to take less money to sign with the Patriots, so Tom Brady agrees to give him $10,00 per TD reception.

But clearly this doesn't fall into that category. 

C'mon NFL.  A small fine, ok.  But don't make a mountain out of a mole hill.

Emails at lallan@todaystmj4.com