Dolphins' Olivier Vernon fined by NFL for late hit on Marcus Mariota

DAVIE, Fla. -- Miami Dolphins defensive end Olivier Vernonplans to appeal after being fined by the NFL on Wednesday for a late, low hit onTennessee Titansquarterback Marcus Mariota.

Vernon declined to say how much he was fined. He hit the Tennessee rookie's kneeduring Miami's 38-10 victory Sunday and was criticized afterward by Titans coach Ken Whisenhunt, who said it appeared Vernon was trying to hurt Mariota.

Dolphins interim coach Dan Campbell says he told Vernon he's not a dirty player.

"I just told him that I know he's not a dirty player. I know who he is and I saw the play," he said. "He's playing football and he's trying to get to the quarterback. He's not dirty. He's not trying to do anything cheap."

Mariota sprained the MCL in his left knee but didn't miss a snap. He finished the game with a brace on his knee.

Vernon apologized after the game to Mariota, who said he didn't think the hit was malicious. On the play, Vernon drew the first of two penalties he received for roughing the passer.

ESPN.com reporter James Walker and The Associated Press contributed to this report.