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NFL Makes Punishment Decision on Josh Allen Incident

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Dec 6, 2025 4:21 PM ET

Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills improved to 8-4 by defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 26-7 in Week 13. It was a bounce-back performance after falling to the Houston Texans the previous week.

Allen's performance wasn't up to the standards of a reigning MVP. He completed 15-of-23 passes for 123 yards, one touchdown, one interception and a 75.1 passer rating. He also rushed for 38 yards and one touchdown on eight carries.

On fourth and goal from the 1-yard line in the third quarter, Allen threw his lone passing touchdown. After the play, Steelers defensive tackle Cam Heyward was flagged for taunting after getting into Allen's face.

It wouldn't have much effect on the game, as it was enforced during the kickoff. Bills kicker Matt Prater was flagged for kicking the ball out of bounds. Pittsburgh got the ball on the 25-yard line and went just nine yards before punting.

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen.© Jeff Romance / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

However, it means that Heyward could receive additional punishment from the NFL. According to the league's guidelines, a player can be fined $11,593 for taunting, with the total increasing to $17,389 for a second offense in the same season.

Unfortunately for Heyward, after further review from the league officials, he did receive an $11,593 fine. In total, the NFL handed out 29 fines, which is 16 more compared to Week 12, showing a significant increase.

With this decision now out of the way, Heyward and the 6-6 Steelers hit the road for an AFC North matchup against the 6-6 Baltimore Ravens. Whoever wins will take sole control of the division.

As for Allen, he and the Bills are looking to keep things hot going against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 14.

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

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