Why was Allen Lazard hit with $14,069 fine? Explaining reason behind Jets WR's penalty

Allen Lazard and the New York Jets suffered a shock loss to the Denver Broncos in Week 4 in a rain-soaked, low-scoring game at the MetLife Stadium. The pouring rain and both teams' stellar defense made moving the ball downfield difficult for the offenses. The Jets muster only 248 yards of offense and finished the game with only nine points.

Despite the difficulties in the passing game, Lazard and quarterback Aaron Rodgers did showcase their synergy, combining for five catches for 58 yards. However, one of those cost the wide receiver $14,069.

Why was Allen Lazard fined?

Late in the third quarter, the Jets trailed by a point and were in prime position to take the lead as Rodgers had the offense on the 30-yard line.

On a 1st-and-10 play, Allen Lazard managed to find some separation from cornerback Riley Moss, and the veteran quarterback threw a dime to the receiver for a 13-yard catch to move the chain.

The wide receiver celebrated the catch with a finger gun gesture, which proved to be a massive error. The referees threw a flag for unsportsmanlike conduct, negating the gain and costing New York 15 yards. It took them out of the red zone, and the momentum of their drive stalled, forcing them to settle for a field goal.

On Saturday, the league announced that Lazard will have to pay a $14,069 fine for the finger guns gesture. It's an insult to injury for the wide receiver, who was perplexed when the referees threw the flag and is likely just as baffled about the fine.

Lazard and his team will look to put the loss to the Broncos in the rearview mirror and focus on the arduous task ahead. The Jets are scheduled to take on the undefeated Minnesota Vikings at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England on Sunday.

They'll look to end their opponents' perfect start to the season and avoid falling below .500.