Patrick Mahomes Faces NFL Fine for Taunting Incident in Chiefs-Lions Game

Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes could face a financial penalty from the league. The potential fine stems from a taunting gesture directed at Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch. The incident occurred during the Chiefs’ Week 6 victory this past Sunday.

This action violates the NFL’s reinforced rules on unsportsmanlike conduct. According to Newsweek, the league has recently emphasized cracking down on such behavior.

Details of the On-Field Taunting Incident

The moment happened just before halftime. Mahomes had just scored a rushing touchdown to cap a 55-yard drive.

After crossing the goal line, the quarterback appeared to taunt Branch. He pointed in his direction, dropped the football, and pretended to wipe off his jersey. He finished the display by flexing his bicep.

This sequence could be deemed a violation of NFL Rule 12. The rule prohibits “baiting or taunting acts or words that may engender ill will between teams.” A first offense for taunting carries a standard fine of $11,593.

Post-Game Altercation Compounds Controversy

The tension from the on-field incident spilled over after the final whistle. A separate confrontation escalated into a physical altercation involving multiple players.

Reports from Yahoo Sports indicate that Mahomes attempted a post-game handshake with Branch. The Lions safety ignored the gesture. The situation worsened when Branch later approached Chiefs wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster.

Branch struck Smith-Schuster in the facemask, sparking a larger brawl. Smith-Schuster required medical attention for a nose injury. Coach Andy Reid confirmed the player was hurt.

The NFL is now reviewing both the taunting incident and the post-game fight. This could result in disciplinary action for multiple players, including a potential fine for Patrick Mahomes.

Thought you’d like to know

Why could Patrick Mahomes be fined?

The NFL has strict rules against taunting opponents. Mahomes’s gestures toward Brian Branch after a touchdown are under review for potentially violating these conduct policies.

What is the fine amount for a first taunting offense?

The standard league-mandated fine for a first taunting offense is $11,593. A second offense would result in a larger penalty of $17,389.

Who started the fight after the Chiefs-Lions game?

The post-game brawl began when Detroit’s Brian Branch struck Chiefs receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster in the facemask. This followed Branch ignoring a handshake from Patrick Mahomes.

Was anyone injured in the altercation?

Yes, JuJu Smith-Schuster suffered a nose injury during the fight. He was seen holding a towel to his face and received medical attention.

What was the final score of the game?

The Kansas City Chiefs won the Week 6 matchup against the Detroit Lions with a final score of 30-17. Mahomes threw three passing touchdowns and scored one rushing touchdown.

Trusted Sources

Newsweek, Yahoo Sports, NFL Official Rulebook.