The National Football League continues to levy fines with increasing frequency this season, a trend underscored by recent sanctions against CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens, totaling over a million dollars. Recent incidents involving Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, however, may foreshadow a stricter response to player conduct following an outburst directed at a referee.
Smith-Njigba incurred a holding penalty during a run by Zach Charbonnet, wiping out a potential touchdown for the Seahawks against the Arizona Cardinals with just over nine minutes remaining in the third quarter, shifting the score to 20-6. As the referee announced the call, Smith-Njigba, in a moment captured on hot mics, exclaimed, “That’s some bull—-!”
The incident drew an “oh” from the crowd and a stern glare from the referee. The repercussions are now being scrutinized in light of similar behavior exhibited by Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon Ra St. Brown.
St. Brown, after scoring a game-tying touchdown in the third quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, let loose with, “I run this sh–,” followed by a racial slur. “I was just excited, man. It was a big play in the game, a play that we needed at that time and moment. Big touchdown. I was just full of emotions and got a little excited,” he stated after the game.
The potential penalties for St. Brown are significant. First offenses related to unsportsmanlike conduct can cost up to $14,491, while repeat offenders face fines of as much as $20,288. Given the severity of his remarks, a higher fine is anticipated.
Comparing the two incidents, Smith-Njigba’s outburst was directly at the call, while St. Brown’s was in celebration and included offensive language. A transgression targeting an official would trigger a far steeper penalty, potentially beginning at $32,547 for a first offense. This precedent is exemplified by Ja’Marr Chase’s $31,599 fine against referee Alex Kemp last year.
While Smith-Njigba appears likely to receive a relatively light sanction, St. Brown’s case carries considerably greater risk. The league’s demonstrated willingness to penalize similar behavior suggests a potential for a substantial fine, emphasizing the increasing importance of player conduct beyond the field of play.