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NFL Makes Punishment Decision on Patrick Mahomes Incident

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Nov 1, 2025 4:05 PM ET

Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs secured their third straight win in Week 8 of the 2025 NFL season, moving to 5-3 after defeating Marcus Mariota and the Washington Commanders 28-7. Mahomes finished the game completing 25-of-34 passes for 299 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions, adding another 30 yards on the ground.

With 6:04 remaining in the final quarter and the win ultimately secured for Kansas City, Commanders defensive tackle Jer'Zhan Newton brought down Mahomes for a sack, backing the Chiefs up eight yards. However, after the whistle, Newton continued playing, tossing Mahomes to the turf. An unnecessary roughness penalty was called, giving Kansas City 15 yards and a first down.

Washington Commanders safety Tyler Owens speaks to Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick MahomesJay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Typically in the NFL, players are fined up to $11,593 for a first late hit offense, which can increase to $17,389 upon a second violation in the same season. However, the league elected not to fine Newton for his hit on Mahomes.

While Newton wasn't charged, two other Commanders players were, including safety Quan Martin ($11,572) for a hit on a defenseless player and linebacker Frankie Luvu ($46,372) for a hip-drop tackle.

Commanders flagged for roughing the passer for throwing Mahomes down pic.twitter.com/rMJIo4yn4N
— Rate the Refs (@Rate_the_Refs) October 28, 2025

Through the first eight weeks of the 2025 NFL season, players have been fined a total of $46,357 for late hits. In Week 1, Steelers tight end Connor Heyward ($6,327) and Titans linebacker James Williams ($5,457) were penalized. Patriots defensive tackle Davon Godchaux was fined $5,591 in Week 5, while Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin ($11,593) and Chargers defensive tackle Teair Tart ($17,389) were each fined in Week 6.

Up next for Mahomes and the Chiefs, a Week 9 battle with Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills on Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET on CBS.

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

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