The Detroit Lions are heading into a must-win matchup that could significantly shape their playoff hopes. On Sunday, December 14, Detroit will face Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams, and a victory would greatly improve their chances of reaching the postseason. However, just days before the game, one Lions player found himself on the wrong side of the NFL’s disciplinary process.
Fortunately for Detroit, the situation does not involve a suspension, meaning the player will still be available against the Rams. That availability is especially important, as the Lions enter the contest at 8–5 and are preparing to take on one of the league’s most potent offenses. The Rams currently sit at 10–3 and are among the strongest teams of the 2025–26 season.
On Saturday, December 13, the NFL released its weekly list of fines stemming from the previous week’s games. According to the league’s official statement, these penalties are designed to reduce unnecessary risk to players while maintaining fairness and the integrity of the game. The NFL and the NFL Players Association have jointly agreed upon specific violations that can result in disciplinary action.
One prominent Lions player appeared on that list—and not just briefly. He was assessed the highest fine of the week, totaling $17,968, for an incident during Detroit’s game against the Dallas Cowboys.
NFL Hands Down Punishment to Lions Standout
The NFL confirmed on December 13 that linebacker Alex Anzalone was fined $17,968 following an incident in the Lions’ Thursday night matchup against Dallas on December 4. The league cited Anzalone for “unnecessary roughness” as well as “striking/kicking/tripping/kneeing” with 6:28 remaining in the second quarter.
While the fine was the most severe handed out that week, it was not serious enough to result in a suspension. That’s a positive outcome for Detroit, as Anzalone’s presence will be crucial when the Lions face the Rams.
Cowboys Players Also Fined After Lions Game
The NFL also disciplined several Dallas players for their actions in the same contest. George Pickens was fined $11,593 for a facemask violation tied to unnecessary roughness late in the second quarter. Another Cowboys player received an $8,537 fine for helmet use and unnecessary roughness at the opening kickoff of the game, while James Houston was fined $5,722 for delivering a blow to the head or neck in the fourth quarter.
Houston’s penalty stemmed from contact made against Lions quarterback Jared Goff.
According to the league, all money collected from fines is distributed to the Professional Athletes Foundation to assist former players in need, as well as to the NFL Foundation to promote health, safety, and wellness initiatives for athletes at all levels, including youth football.
Looking ahead, the stakes are clear for Detroit. A win over the Rams would boost the Lions’ playoff odds from 55% to 74%, based on NFL projections. A loss would drop those chances to 45%. Meanwhile, the Rams already hold a 97% probability of reaching the postseason.