Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

NFL Announces Punishment Decision After Shedeur Sanders Incident

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Jan 3, 2026 4:21 PM ET

The Cleveland Browns pulled off the upset in Week 17, defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 13-6. It snapped a four-game losing streak and improved Cleveland to 4-12 on the season.

It was also rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders' second career win. However, his numbers were not outstanding, completing 17-of-23 passes for 186 yards, one touchdown, two interceptions and a 75.6 passer rating.

He was the recipient of multiple hits as well, getting sacked twice by Pittsburgh. During the third quarter, Steelers defensive lineman Cam Heyward was also flagged for roughing the passer.

It came on second-and-14 after an incomplete pass from Sanders to tight end Brenden Bates. Instead of no gain on the play, the Browns netted 15 yards and an automatic first down. However, they would end the drive with a punt.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Heyward's roughing the passer penalty meant he could receive a $17,389 fine from the NFL, which could increase to $23,186 for a second offense in the same season. Since joining the NFL in 2011, he's been fined just three times, totaling $39,430. The most recent was for a taunting penalty against the Buffalo Bills in Week 13 of this season.

The league revealed its official ruling on Saturday in the Week 17 gameday accountability report. Luckily for Heyward, he did not receive an additional punishment for his hit on Sanders. In fact, nobody on the Steelers received any fines.

Up next for the 9-7 Steelers is a Week 18 matchup against the 8-8 Baltimore Ravens on "Sunday Night Football." Whichever team wins will earn the AFC North title and a ticket to the playoffs.

As for Sanders and the Browns, they close out the season going up against the 6-10 Cincinnati Bengals. Both teams have already been eliminated from playoff contention.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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