NEW YORK -- Atlanta safety Damontae Kazee was docked $10,026 for his hit on Carolina quarterback Cam Newton last Sunday that also drew an ejection.

• Newton was hit last Sunday by Damontae Kazee
• Torrey Smith and Takk McKinley were also fined
• RELATED: Panthers defense under microscope 

Kazee apologized this week for hitting into the helmet of Newton, who was sliding feet-first on a play in the second quarter. Newton was quickly checked on the sideline before returning to the field without missing a play.

Kazee, who made his second NFL start, said he needs to adjust to the new rule.

"I've got to learn to try to keep my head up when I tackle," he said.

The play drew two other $10,026 fines: one on Panthers wide receiver Torrey Smith for a retaliatory hit on Kazee, and another on the Falcons' Takk McKinley for going after Smith.