The NFL doesn’t shy away from hefty fines when it comes to protecting its players, especially quarterbacks. Marlon Humphrey, cornerback for the Baltimore Ravens, is the latest to feel the financial sting after a controversial hit on Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen.
Let’s dive into how much Humphrey was fined, the NFL’s crackdown on dangerous hits, and how these penalties compare across the league.
Marlon Humphrey’s Fine: $45,020 For Unnecessary Roughness
The NFL fined Humphrey $45,020 for unnecessary roughness after his helmet-to-helmet hit on Josh Allen. Officials didn’t throw a flag during the game, but the league reviewed the play and decided to penalize Humphrey. The fine reflects the NFL’s commitment to protecting players, particularly quarterbacks, from dangerous tackles.
Zero-Tolerance Approach To Dangerous Hits
The NFL has shown zero tolerance for violations that endanger players, and Humphrey’s fine ranks among the season’s largest. His $45,020 penalty matches the fine imposed on New York Jets linebacker Quincy Williams, who also led with his helmet during a Week 7 hit.
The NFL fined #Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey $45,020 for unnecessary roughness (use of the helmet) — this hit on #Bills QB Josh Allen last week. No flag was thrown. pic.twitter.com/6UZTY95kcC
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 25, 2025
Fines for similar infractions vary. The NFL fined San Francisco 49ers linebacker Fred Warner $16,883 for a hip-drop tackle, significantly less than Humphrey’s penalty. In another example, 49ers offensive tackle Trent Williams received only an $11,817 fine for punching an opponent, even though officials ejected him from the game.
Frankie Luvu’s Fines Raise Questions About Consistency
Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu received two fines in one game against the Detroit Lions, totaling $33,766. The league fined him $16,883 for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Lions quarterback Jared Goff, which led to a pick-six. Officials missed the foul, but the NFL reviewed the play and issued the penalty.
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The NFL fined #Commanders LB Frankie Luvu $16,883 for roughing the passer (blow to the head/neck) — his block on #Lions QB Jared Goff that aided a pick-six return.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 25, 2025
No flag was thrown on what ended up being a pivotal play in Washington’s upset win.
pic.twitter.com/o6RhfiS6kb
Luvu’s second fine, also $16,883, came from an illegal hip-drop tackle on Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs during the same game. Officials again failed to call a penalty on the field. These incidents illustrate the inconsistencies in how referees enforce rules and how the league imposes fines.
Jameson Williams Fined For “Obscene” Celebration
While Humphrey’s fine focuses on player safety, Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct. After a 61-yard touchdown, Williams celebrated with what the league deemed an “obscene gesture,” resulting in a $25,325 fine.
This isn’t the first time Williams has faced fines for celebrations. Earlier in the season, he was fined for emulating Marshawn Lynch’s provocative dance moves. The NFL’s strict stance on celebratory behavior shows that the league isn’t just policing on-field safety but also decorum and professionalism.
The NFL fined #Lions WR Jameson Williams $25,325 for unsportsmanlike conduct (obscene gestures) — a PG-13 rated TD celebration in last week’s playoff loss to Washington.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) January 25, 2025
pic.twitter.com/76GFFdSvQj
Disparities In Fines Across The League
While the NFL strongly focuses on protecting players, disparities in fines often spark debate. For example, Kansas City Chiefs fans questioned why Houston Texans defenders Henry To’oTo’o and Will Anderson Jr. avoided fines for a late hit on Patrick Mahomes, despite drawing an unnecessary roughness penalty during the game.
Similarly, Lions fans received little consolation after Jared Goff’s helmet-to-helmet hit went unpenalized, even though it led to a pivotal Washington touchdown. Such inconsistencies leave room for improvement in the league’s fine and penalty system.
The NFL’s Message: Safety And Discipline Matter
This season, The NFL’s actions focus on player safety and discipline. The league uses fines to discourage dangerous tackles and enforce professional conduct during games.
Marlon Humphrey’s and Jameson Williams’ fines depict the consequences of violating the league’s rules. Whether it’s a helmet-to-helmet hit or an inappropriate celebration, the NFL sends a clear message: players who cross the line will pay the price.
Also Read: What Does A Snap Infraction Penalty Mean In NFL? Find Out
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