NFL fines Bengals linebacker Shaka Heyward for hip-drop tackle
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 10:19 PM
Last updated Sep 8, 2026
The NFL has fined Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Shaka Heyward $5,972 for a prohibited hip-drop tackle during a preseason game against the Chicago Bears. The violation occurred in the second quarter against Chicago tight end Colston Loveland. Heyward currently holds a position on the Bengals' practice squad after failing to secure a spot on the team's 53-man roster. While he retains the right to appeal the fine through the NFL and NFL Players Association, the penalty remains documented under league accountability measures. Heyward enters the regular season expected to contribute primarily on special teams, a role where he recorded 199 snaps during the previous season. The Cincinnati Bengals are scheduled to open their regular season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Paycor Stadium.
- •Shaka Heyward received a $5,972 fine for a preseason hip-drop tackle.
- •The illegal tackle occurred against Chicago Bears tight end Colston Loveland.
- •Heyward is currently signed to the Cincinnati Bengals practice squad.
- •The Bengals open their regular season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Paycor Stadium.
- •Fine proceeds are directed to the Professional Athletes Foundation and the NFL Foundation.
- 10:19 PMYahoo Sports — NFL Punishes Bengals Defender Ahead of Regular Season
"On Sunday, the Cincinnati Bengals will kick off their regular season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Paycor Stadium.The game will mark the return of the team’s starters to NFL action, as most of them missed the final two games of the preseason.However, one of Cincinnati’s players who did participate in preseason action has recently […] The post NFL Punishes Bengals Defender Ahead of Regular Season appeared first on HEAVY.
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