NFL Fines Browns' Tytus Howard $12,537
The largest fine announced by the NFL for the 2026 preseason was given to the Cleveland Browns' offensive lineman for tripping during a game against the Chicago Bears
The NFL has fined Cleveland Browns' offensive lineman Tytus Howard $12,537 for unnecessary roughness during a preseason game. The fine, which is the largest announced by the NFL for the 2026 preseason, was for tripping during the first quarter of the game against the Chicago Bears on August 15.
Howard received a 15-yard penalty for the incident, which occurred during the first play of the Browns' second possession. Despite the penalty, the Browns went on to score their first points of the preseason with a 50-yard field goal by kicker Andre Szmyt.
The fine is notable for being larger than typical preseason fines. Of the 25 players who have been fined this preseason, only two have received fines exceeding $10,000. The total amount fined to these players is $163,513, averaging $6,541 per player.
Tytus Howard, who signed a two-year, $45 million contract with the Browns in March, is a veteran offensive lineman with 97 regular-season starts under his belt. The 30-year-old player was traded from Houston to Cleveland earlier this year.
## Why it matters The NFL's ability to fine players is established in the Collective Bargaining Agreement with the players' union. The fines are typically lower during the preseason, as players are not receiving their regular paychecks. However, the fine money is donated to the Professional Athletes Foundation and the NFL Foundation, which support former players in need and health and safety initiatives in football, respectively.
The fine will be withheld from Howard's next game check if he does not appeal. If he chooses to appeal, he will have a hearing with an appeals officer jointly appointed by the NFL and the NFL Players Association. The appeals officer has the final say in the matter.
The incident highlights the NFL's commitment to maintaining player safety and enforcing rules during games. As the preseason continues, players and teams will be closely watching the league's disciplinary actions to ensure a safe and fair playing environment.
