NFL Makes Punishment Decision After Bo Nix Incident

Isaiah J&period; Downing-Imagn Images

NFL Makes Punishment Decision After Bo Nix Incident

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Oct 19, 2026 9:58 AM ET

Los Angeles Chargers safety Tony Jefferson avoided a fine after his hit on Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix in Week 5.

The Broncos visited the Chargers at SoFi Stadium on Oct. 11 and won 23-17. Denver improved to 3-2, as Nix completed 16 of 27 passes for 123 yards and one touchdown.

Nix took a hit from Jefferson in the fourth quarter on second-and-3. Nix completed a pass to Jaylen Waddle, moving Denver to Los Angeles’ 10-yard line.

However, Jefferson grabbed both of Nix’s legs after the Broncos QB released the pass. Officials flagged Jefferson for roughing the passer, moving Denver to the 5-yard line and giving them an automatic first down.

Los Angeles Chargers safety Tony Jefferson (23) celebrates after the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium.© Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Despite the in-game penalty, Jefferson, who finished with five total tackles, was left out of the NFL’s weekly accountability report released on Saturday. The 12-year veteran dodged a potential $17,911 fine for a roughing-the-passer penalty under the 2026 NFL fines schedule.

Jefferson and the Chargers suffered defeat again on Sunday. They fell to the Kansas City Chiefs, 22-6, and are now 0-6. L.A., now in possession of the worst record in the NFL, will enjoy a bye in Week 7.

Meanwhile, Nix and the Broncos secured a 17-14 win over the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday. They improved to 4-2 and are second in the AFC West behind the 5-0 Chiefs. Denver’s next game is on Oct. 25. They will be on the road to face the 2-4 Arizona Cardinals for Week 7.

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

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