What is the penalty for a late hit on a quarterback?

The penalty for a late hit on a quarterback is 15 yards from the end of the play. This enforcement reflects the severity of the foul, as protecting the quarterback is a significant concern in football due to the risk of injury. When a defensive player strikes a quarterback after he has already released the ball or when he is considered defenseless, the rules penalize such actions more harshly to inhibit aggressive behavior that can lead to injuries.

Fifteen yards is a standard penalty for unnecessary roughness, which encompasses late hits on quarterbacks, making this enforcement essential for the safety of the players. The enforcement from the end of the play signifies that the penalty yardage is added to the end of the play's result, effectively improving the offensive team's field position as a consequence of the foul.