PITTSBURGH -- Steelers guard Ramon Foster was fined $9,115 for retaliating against a Giants defender in defense of Pittsburgh running back Le'Veon Bell after a questionable play, according to teammates.

With about two minutes left in the Steelers' 24-14 win last weekend, Giants linebacker Kelvin Sheppard appeared to reach under Bell's facemask and pull backward during a gang tackle, twisting his neck.

Foster tossed Sheppard out of the pile in disgust, prompting a mini-skirmish between the teams.

Foster was a central figure in the showdown. He wasn't in the locker room Thursday, but a few teammates say they are willing to help pay for the fine if he doesn't win on appeal.

The NFL applies $9,115 fines for several categories, including striking/kicking/kneeling, late hits or unnecessarily entering a fighting area for a second offense.

Bell, who believed Sheppard was trying to hurt him on the play, is grateful for a teammate's helping hand. "I'm glad I got my guys. I call them my goons up front. They are down to ride with me whenever."