Chad Greenway didn't mean big hit, but he's docked $21,000

Minnesota Vikings linebacker Chad Greenway was fined $21,000 by the NFL for an illegal hit on Detroit Lions wide receiver Chad Johnson last week.

Greenway hit Johnson in the head/neck area during the Vikings victory at Ford Field and teams are beating up on the big wide receiver a little bit this season.

Greenway hit Johnson after he dropped a pass over the middle and Greenway apologized for his actions afterward, according to the Associated Press.

I didn't mean any intent to hurt him or anything. I was just trying to play the game," Greenway said. "Once I saw he was in a vulnerable position I tried to pull off — a little late obviously. Glad he wasn't hurt and I hope he's good.

"I was trying to show that I didn't finish the hit. I tried to pull off. Just something about being a defensive player in the NFL right now. That's what it's going to be. So you've got to expect it."

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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune

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