NFL Notes: Broncos penalized for taping

The NFL fined the Denver Broncos and coach Josh McDaniels $50,000 each because the team’s video operations director filmed a San Francisco 49ers practice in London last month, breaking league rules.

The NFL investigation determined Steve Scarnecchia took a six-minute video of the walkthrough and presented it that day to McDaniels. The coach declined to view it. Still, the NFL fined both the coach and team because the matter was not promptly reported, as required by the league.

Scarnecchia was also involved in the NFL’s last videotaping scandal, dubbed Spygate. After the Patriots were caught videotaping New York Jets coaches sending in signals during a 2007 game, the league’s investigation determined New England had violated rules over several seasons. Scarnecchia, who had left the Patriots by the time they were caught, was found to have taken part in the videotaping when he worked for the team in the early 2000s.

Scarnecchia was fired by the Broncos and was notified by Commissioner Roger Goodell that, as a repeat violator of league rules regarding the integrity of the game, he faced a hearing to determine if he would be banned from the NFL.

Eagles CB Samuel out

Philadelphia Eagles Pro Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel won’t play against the Chicago Bears today because of a knee injury. He injured his knee while recovering a fumble last weekend against the New York Giants.

Bills LB Merriman on IR

Buffalo Bills Shawne Merriman was placed on injured reserve because of a nagging Achilles tendon injury he aggravated in his first practice with the team on Nov. 10.