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Cowboys Bracing for Punishment After Loss to Broncos

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Oct 26, 2025 8:11 PM ET

Brian Schottenheimer and the Dallas Cowboys suffered arguably their ugliest loss of the 2025 NFL season in Week 7, dropping to 3-4-1 after a 44-24 defeat to Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos. Aside from a lone interception, the Dallas defense once again struggled, surrendering 426 total yards, including 179 on the ground. Dak Prescott wasn't much better, throwing two interceptions of his own.

With three minutes and 47 seconds left in the second quarter, Broncos running back RJ Harvey scored on a one-yard run to put Denver up 20-10. After the play, Cowboys defensive end Sam Williams got into a brief scuffle with tackle Garrett Bolles and took a swipe at his facemask. Williams was flagged for unnecessary roughness, and Denver accepted the penalty but failed on its two-point try.

Dallas Cowboys defensive end Sam Williams looks on during an NFL gameJerome Miron-Imagn Images

With his shot at Bolles, Williams could see a fine coming his way. In the NFL, players are typically fined up to $12,172 for a first "striking/kicking/tripping/kneeing" offense, especially if it's toward the head/neck area. This can increase to $17,968 upon a second violation.

This is not the first time Williams has been charged for his actions this season. Following the Week 4 tie to the Green Bay Packers, the former Ole Miss star was fined $11,002 for a facemask. He was also penalized $7,859 back in 2023 for an unnecessary roughness against the Washington Commanders.

In Week 7 alone, two players were fined for similar incidents. Detroit Lions defensive end Tyrus Wheat was fined $5,722 for an illegal hit on Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, while New York Giants rookie Cam Skattebo was penalized $6,157 for a similar offense against the Broncos.