The NFL has made a final decision on punishment for two Detroit Lions players involved in separate incidents. Safety Brian Branch has been fined $20,256 for unnecessary roughness and inappropriate conduct after a game against the Green Bay Packers. Branch was ejected from the game for a helmet-to-helmet hit on Packers wide receiver Bo Melton and further escalated the situation by flipping off the crowd ¹.

Branch’s Fine Breakdown

– Unnecessary Roughness: $10,128 for the hit that led to his ejection

– Inappropriate Conduct: $10,128 for flipping off the crowd

In another incident, tight end Brock Wright was fined $11,883 for striking, kicking, tripping, or kneeing against the Cincinnati Bengals. Meanwhile, Lions defensive back Kerby Joseph was not fined for his hit on Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase, despite being flagged for unnecessary roughness ².

NFL’s Consistency

The NFL’s decision to fine Branch and Wright, while not fining Joseph, raises questions about consistency in the league’s disciplinary actions. However, the NFL has emphasized its commitment to protecting players from unnecessary risk and preserving competitive balance and game integrity ³.

Impact on the Lions

The fines and suspensions will impact the Lions’ roster, particularly with Branch’s absence potentially affecting the team’s defensive performance. The Lions will need to adjust their lineup and ensure that their players are aware of the NFL’s expectations for sportsmanship and conduct ⁴.