Most-fined NFL player overshadowed by ex-Alabama All-American

ago 2 hours
29 Sep 2025 - 03:17
Most-fined NFL player overshadowed by ex-Alabama All-American
Brian Branch

Detroit Lions’ Brian Branch and Jets’ Quinnen Williams Among Top Fined NFL Players in Week 3

NFL Fines Quinnen Williams Twice for Tackles

In the latest round of fines announced by the NFL, New York Jets defensive tackle Quinnen Williams faced significant penalties. Williams, who emerged from Wenonah High School and Alabama’s football program, was fined a total of $28,982. This included $17,389 for a hip-drop tackle and $11,593 for face-masking during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Although the hip-drop tackle did not draw a flag, his face-mask penalty during a tackle on Tampa Bay’s Bucky Irving was duly noted in the Jets’ narrow 29-27 victory.

Brian Branch Continues Record of Penalties

Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch, notorious for being the most fined player during the 2024 season, continues his trend into 2025. In the Lions’ season-opening defeat to the Green Bay Packers, Branch was fined $11,593 each for unsportsmanlike conduct and unnecessary roughness. In a subsequent victory over the Baltimore Ravens, Branch’s defensive strategies led to a low-block penalty against Derrick Henry, resulting in another $11,593 fine.

Other Players Hit with Fines

Marcus Jones, a former player from Enterprise High School and Troy, also faced penalties in Week 3. The New England Patriots cornerback received a $9,151 fine due to a low-block penalty in the Patriots’ 21-14 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

NFL’s Structured Fine System

The NFL’s approach to infractions is guided by a collectively bargained schedule of fines, taking into account aggravating and mitigating factors. This structured system ensures that penalties are applied fairly, proportionate to the misconduct observed on the field.

Player Name Infraction Fine Amount
Quinnen Williams Hip-drop tackle, Face-masking $28,982
Brian Branch Unsportsmanlike conduct, Unnecessary roughness, Low-block $34,779
Marcus Jones Low-block $9,151

For more updates on player penalties and the NFL’s fine system, stay tuned to El-Balad.