[Stardust]

BEREA, Ohio — T.J. Ward’s “cheap shot” was costly.

For delivering a nasty blow to an opponent’s head, the NFL belted the Browns’ rookie safety in the wallet

Ward, who in just four games as a pro has developed a reputation as a ferocious tackler and fearless talker, was fined $15,000 Wednesday for his helmet-to-helmet hit on Cincinnati wide receiver Jordan Shipley during the fourth quarter of the Browns’ win on Sunday.

Ward confirmed he was fined, but he would not divulge the amount. However, a person familiar with the situation told The Associated Press that the league assessed Ward the $15,000 penalty for ramming Shipley, who was knocked out briefly and sustained a concussion.

The league will not announce its discipline on Ward until Friday.