D'Andre Swift Hit with Season-High $22,511 Fine

In a striking blow to the Chicago Bears’ offensive lineup, the NFL handed D'Andre Swift a hefty fine, marking the most significant financial penalty for a Bears player this season. Swift, a key running back, is now $22,511 lighter after a review of his helmet-first hit into Vikings safety Josh Metellus, which went unpunished during the game.

The incident occurred with just under seven minutes left in the second quarter against the Vikings. Swift, in an attempt to gain extra yardage, led with his helmet directly into Metellus' facemask. Despite the absence of a flag on the play, the league's review pinpointed the act as unnecessary roughness, spotlighting the NFL's intense scrutiny over player safety.

This fine surpasses previous penalties against Bears players this season, with cornerback Tyrique Stevenson's unsportsmanlike conduct fine of $19,697 for tripping during the Thanksgiving Day matchup against the Lions trailing behind. The league's firm stance on player safety is evident as they continue to hand out fines for on-field misconduct, aiming to curtail unnecessary roughness that could lead to injuries.