The NFL has fined two Pittsburgh Steelers players following their 29–24 victory over the Detroit Lions last Sunday, citing unsportsmanlike conduct and unnecessary roughness during the game.
Rookie defensive tackle Yahya Black was fined $5,194 for making a vulgar gesture toward the Lions’ sideline in the first quarter. After stopping a run, Black was seen flipping his middle finger, an act the league classified as a violation of its conduct policy. The fine reportedly costs the fifth-round pick more than 10 percent of his standard game check.
Despite the fine, Black has quickly developed a reputation for playing with high energy and swagger at nose tackle, drawing comparisons to old-school run-stuffing defensive linemen. His role in Pittsburgh’s defensive rotation is expected to expand as the season progresses.
Meanwhile, Steelers outside linebacker Alex Highsmith was fined $12,172 for tripping Lions quarterback Jared Goff during Detroit’s final offensive drive. The play resulted in a 15-yard penalty that moved the Lions deep into Steelers territory, though Pittsburgh ultimately held on for the win.
These were the only fines issued to Steelers players from the game. However, the week was costly overall for the organization, as wide receiver DK Metcalf is set to forfeit more than $550,000 over the next two weeks due to a suspension stemming from an altercation with a Lions fan.
The Steelers have consistently ranked among the most heavily fined teams in the NFL. They led the league in total fines during the 2024 season, and while they are not at the top of that list in 2025, Pittsburgh remains in the top half of the league in fines assessed.
With fines continuing to pile up, discipline remains a growing concern as the Steelers push through the remainder of the season.




