NFL : AROUND THE LEAGUE : Falcons’ coach fined $15,000

Two people familiar with the situation say Atlanta Falcons Coach Mike Smith has been fined $15,000 by the NFL for a sideline scuffle, while Washington cornerback DeAngelo Hall avoided any punishment.

The people spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the league has not officially commented on the situation. The NFL also fined Redskins safety LaRon Landry $7,500, defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth $5,000 and Falcons director of athletic performance Jeff Fish $2,500. Hall was not fined.

Seattle Seahawks defensive back Roy Lewis says he is appealing a $5,000 fine from the league for a late hit.

Morey played despite concussion

Arizona Cardinals wide receiver and special teams player Sean Morey says he played with a concussion against the Chicago Bears last Sunday even though he has taken a lead role in raising awareness of head injuries.

“I just downplayed my symptoms and didn’t communicate well enough with my training staff so they weren’t able to do their job effectively,” Morey said Thursday.

Morey hasn’t practiced this week because of the concussion.

Gage has broken bones in back

Tennessee receiver Justin Gage has several broken bones in his lower back, and he is unlikely to play Sunday against Buffalo. The receiver was injured when he fell to the ground after making a leaping catch to set up the go-ahead touchdown in last week’s 34-27 win at San Francisco.

More injuries

Clinton Portis’ concussion will keep the Redskins’ running back out of Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos. Portis was hurt in a helmet-to-helmet hit in Sunday’s 31-17 loss to Atlanta. . . . Center Nick Hardwick probably will have to wait at least another week to rejoin the San Diego Chargers. After participating in part of practice Wednesday, the former Pro Bowler missed Thursday’s practice because of a sore ankle, and Coach Norv Turner says it’s unlikely that he’ll play Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles.

League quashes marketing moves

The NFL has scuttled a guerrilla marketing campaign designed to get players to strike a pose resembling a liquor brand’s advertising. Yahoo Sports reported that the move stems from a touchdown celebration by Eagles tight end Brent Celek during Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys.

After catching an 11-yard pass from Donovan McNabb, Celek appeared to back up to align himself in front of television cameras. Putting his hands on his hips, Celek raised his right leg, mimicking a pose similar to the pirate on the label for Captain Morgan’s rum.

Yahoo reported that the pose was banned this week after the league learned of a wider campaign meant to get players to strike it during NFL games.