The Detroit Lions are heading into a pivotal matchup that could define their postseason hopes. On Sunday, December 14, Detroit faces the Los Angeles Rams, led by former Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford. A victory would significantly improve Detroit’s playoff outlook, but just days before kickoff, news surfaced that one Lions player has landed on the NFL’s disciplinary radar.
Fortunately for Detroit, the situation does not involve a suspension. The player in question remains eligible to suit up, which is critical as the Lions, currently 8–5, prepare to defend against one of the league’s most explosive offenses. The Rams enter the matchup with a 10–3 record and are among the top teams of the 2025–26 season.
Each week, the NFL releases a list of disciplinary actions stemming from the prior games. According to the league, these penalties are issued to minimize unnecessary danger on the field and maintain fairness and integrity. The NFL and the NFL Players Association have jointly outlined specific rule violations that may lead to fines or other accountability measures.
This week, a prominent Lions player appeared on that list—and not quietly. Linebacker Alex Anzalone was hit with the highest fine handed out by the league, totaling $17,968, following an incident during Detroit’s matchup with the Dallas Cowboys.
The league announced the fine on Saturday, December 13, citing actions that occurred during the December 4 game against Dallas. Anzalone was penalized for unnecessary roughness and for striking or kicking at the 6:28 mark of the second quarter. While the fine was the steepest of the week, it does not affect his availability, a welcome relief for a Lions defense that will need him against Los Angeles.
Dallas Players Also Penalized After Lions Game
The NFL’s disciplinary review didn’t stop with Anzalone. Several Cowboys players were also fined for incidents in the same contest. One Dallas player received an $11,593 fine for a facemask violation tied to unnecessary roughness late in the second quarter. Another was fined $8,537 for helmet use and rough play early in the game, while James Houston was fined $5,722 for a hit involving contact to the head or neck area in the fourth quarter.
Houston’s penalty stemmed from a play involving Lions quarterback Jared Goff.
The NFL confirmed that all money collected from these fines will be directed to charitable causes. Funds will support the Professional Athletes Foundation, which assists former players in need, as well as the NFL Foundation, which focuses on health, safety, and wellness initiatives at all levels of the sport, including youth football.
Looking ahead, the stakes for Sunday’s game are high. A Lions victory would raise their playoff probability from 55% to 74%, according to league projections. A loss would drop those odds to 45%. Meanwhile, the Rams are already in strong position, with a 97% likelihood of reaching the postseason.
