After the Detroit Lions’ 16–9 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Nov. 16, two Detroit players have been hit with disciplinary measures from the NFL. The defeat dealt a blow to Detroit’s standing in both the NFC North and the conference overall, making their upcoming matchup against the New York Giants on Sunday, Nov. 23, even more critical.
As part of its weekly review process, the NFL announces fines every Saturday for infractions committed during the previous week’s games. According to the league, these penalties help maintain fair play, reduce unnecessary risks, and uphold the integrity of competition. The NFL and NFLPA jointly determine which violations warrant punishment.
One of the penalized players is wide receiver Jameson Williams, whose celebration after his long second-quarter touchdown drew the league’s attention. After hauling in a pass from Jared Goff and finishing a 74-yard scoring drive, Williams jumped onto the stanchion—a celebration style the NFL prohibits. His penalty: $14,491 for using a prop and unsportsmanlike conduct.
Also fined was defensive back Brian Branch, who received an $11,599 penalty for unnecessary roughness and improper use of his helmet during a third-quarter play.
Money collected from these fines is directed to the Professional Athletes Foundation, which assists former players in need, and to the NFL Foundation, which funds safety, wellness, and football-related community programs across all levels of the sport.
Players do have the option to challenge these rulings. The NFL notes that appeals are reviewed by designated officers—Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster, or Jordy Nelson—who are jointly appointed by the league and the NFLPA. Their decisions are final.
Focus Shifts to Week 12
Despite the fines, both Williams and Branch will be available for Detroit’s Week 12 showdown with the New York Giants. NFL analysts point out that Detroit’s up-and-down performances this season raise some concerns, but the team still ranks among the top five on offense and defense. The league’s preview suggests that head coach Dan Campbell is capable of correcting course as the season enters its final stretch.
The Giants, meanwhile, are dealing with significant injuries and will take the field without several key players. On paper, the matchup favors Detroit—but as always, the NFL has a way of delivering surprises.
