Peter Casey-Imagn Images

NFL Makes Punishment Decision on Lamar Jackson Incident

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Jan 10, 2026 4:23 PM ET

Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens lost to Aaron Rodgers and the Pittsburgh Steelers 26-24 in Week 18. It dropped them to 8-9 and eliminated them from playoff contention.

Jackson finished the game completing 11-of-18 passes for 238 yards, three touchdowns, one interception and a 121.5 passer rating. He also ran for just nine yards on four carries.

On a second-and-10 play with 7:19 left in the first quarter, he threw an incomplete pass to running back Keaton Mitchell. However, instead of facing a third down, Steelers defensive lineman Yahya Black was flagged for roughing the passer.

The 15-yard penalty gave the Ravens a fresh set of downs. However, they failed to score any points, punting the ball just four plays later.

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) and Pittsburgh Steelers defensive lineman Yahya Black (94)Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Even though Baltimore couldn't capitalize on the penalty, Black's hit on Jackson could still be costly. Players can be fined $17,389 for roughing the passer and $23,186 for a second offense in the same season.

The defender has already been fined $5,194 this season for an obscene gesture against the Detroit Lions in Week 16. On Saturday, the NFL announced its Week 18 gameday accountability report. Black's name did not appear, meaning he avoided a fine for his hit on Jackson.

Up next for him and the Steelers is a wild-card round matchup against the Houston Texans. Pittsburgh has a tall task ahead, trying to stop a Texans squad that is on a nine-game winning streak.

Meanwhile, Jackson and the Ravens are officially in the offseason. The team has already undergone major changes, including firing John Harbaugh, who had been the head coach since 2008.

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

More must-reads: