NFL fines three players for safety fouls in first week of 2026 season

The NFL issued fines to three players related to player safety violations during the first week of the 2026 season. Bills defensive back Sam Franklin was fined $9,425 for a blindside block, Packers defensive back Evan Williams received a $7,087 fine for a hit on a defenseless player, and Dolphins cornerback Chris Johnson was fined $17,911 for a hip-drop tackle. Under a new rule, players with three fouls from five specific safety violations may face suspensions, with the current fines counting toward that total. Players have the right to appeal these fines and can recover half of the fine if they finish the season with one violation.

• 9:44 PMYahoo Sports — NFL issues three fines for player safety fouls that count toward possible suspensions