Bills' Fred Jackson fined $5,000 by NFL for 'D III' symbol (Division III - Coe); Photo

JOHN WAWROW

AP Sports Writer

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (AP) - Buffalo Bills running back Fred Jackson says he's been fined $5,000 by the NFL for painting "DIII" under his eyes rather than using a standard strip of eye black during last weekend's game at Atlanta.

Jackson complained about the fine after practice Wednesday, and said he intends to file an appeal. Jackson was surprised by the punishment because he's been wearing "DIII" - which stands for his Division III college football background - since the Coe College product first broke into the league with Buffalo in 2007.

He said he's previously received no warnings from the league.

The NFL declined comment, saying it only confirms player fines on each Friday during the season.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.