Sun Jan 05 22:30:00 UTC 2025: **Detroit Lions Safety Brian Branch Leads NFL in Fines After Latest Penalty**

SANTA CLARA, CA – Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch has once again been fined by the NFL, bringing his season total to seven and solidifying his position as the league’s most fined player. The latest $10,128 fine stems from a Week 17 tackle on San Francisco 49ers tight end George Kittle, deemed by the league as unnecessary roughness due to helmet use, despite no penalty being called during the game.

Branch’s fine surpasses that of Philadelphia Eagles safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, who has received six fines this season. Three other players with Alabama ties were also fined in Week 17: Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold ($11,817 for unnecessary roughness), Steelers wide receiver George Pickens ($10,231 for unsportsmanlike conduct), and Panthers defensive end A’Shawn Robinson ($16,883 for roughing the passer). Pickens’ fine is his fifth of the season.

The NFL’s fines are determined using a collectively bargained schedule, with aggravating and mitigating factors influencing the final amount. The league announced the Week 17 fines on Saturday.

Read More