NFL Announces Punishment Decision For Shedeur Sanders Incident

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Jan 10, 2026 4:05 PM ET

Shedeur Sanders and the Cleveland Browns improved to 5-12, defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 20-18 in Week 18. It was their final game of the season after already being eliminated from playoff contention.

It was also the first time all season that Cleveland won back-to-back games. Sanders finished the game, completing 11-of-22 passes for 111 yards, zero touchdowns, zero interceptions and a 64.8 passer rating. He was under constant pressure as well, getting sacked six times.

During the second quarter, though, Bengals defensive lineman Cedric Johnson was flagged for roughing the passer.

It came on first-and-10 with 9:44 left on the clock. The rookie quarterback delivered a seven-yard pass to running back Raheim Sanders. Instead of facing second-and-3, the Browns earned an additional 15 yards and a fresh set of downs. The drive, though, ended with a punt.

Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Cedric Johnson (left) and Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (right).Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

According to the NFL rulebook, players can face a $17,389 fine for roughing the passer. That can increase to $23,186 for a second offense in the same season. Though Johnson's hit on Sanders didn't help the Browns score any points, it means he's eligible to receive additional punishment.

It would be a first for the second-year defensive end, who has never been handed a fine. On Saturday, the NFL announced its Week 18 accountability report, revealing an official ruling on the hit. Unfortunately for Johnson, he did receive a fine worth $5,525 for his hit on Sanders.

In total, the NFL handed out 21 fines, which is four fewer than in Week 17. Up next for Johnson and the Bengals is to tackle the offseason. After going 6-11, they extended their playoff drought to three years.

The Browns are in a similar position and have already undergone several major changes. That includes the firing of head coach Kevin Stefanski. After starting seven games this season, Sanders' future role with the team remains in question.

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

More must-reads: