NFL Allows Marshall To Wear Green Cleats
By Adam Hoge-
HALAS HALL (CBS) -- Brandon Marshall was indeed originally told by the NFL that he would not be allowed to play in Thursday night's game against the Giants with lime green shoes, according to a league source.
The league office, however, denies it ever took that stance, telling CBSChicago.com that Marshall will only be subject to a fine.
CSN Chicago first reported that Marshall would "not be permitted on the field Thursday night wearing the green shoes." Marshall wants to wear the shoes to promote Mental Health Awareness Week and he plans on matching the fine he would receive and donating it "to a great foundation doing some work in the mental health community."
According to Rule 5.4.8a of the NFL Rule Book, if a uniform violation is "discovered during pregame warm-ups or at other times prior to the game, player will be advised to make appropriate correction; if the violation is not corrected, player will not be permitted to enter the game."
The rule book goes on to say: "For illegal entry or return of a player suspended under this Section 4: Loss of five yards from succeeding spot and removal until properly equipped after one down.
A repeat violation would result in "disqualification from the game."
There is room for exceptions, however, as Rule 5.4.1 says "all visible items worn on game day by players must be issued by the club or the League, or, if from outside sources, must have approval in advance by the League office."
It appears that Marshall has been granted approval to wear the lime green shoes without being ejected, but he will still be subject to a fine, which is what the wide receiver wanted in the first place.
So will Marshall wear the shoes? We'll find out Thursday night.
Either way, he has successfully brought attention to Mental Health Awareness.
Adam Hoge covers the Bears for CBSChicago.com and is a frequent contributor to 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter at @AdamHoge.
