Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

NFL Makes Punishment Decision on Sequence Involving Shedeur Sanders

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Dec 6, 2025 4:12 PM ET

Shedeur Sanders and the Cleveland Browns came back down to Earth in Week 13, falling to 3-9 on the 2025 NFL season after a 26-8 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. Sanders followed up his first NFL win with a disappointing outing, completing 16-of-25 passes for 149 yards and one touchdown.

With 44 seconds remaining in the third quarter, Sanders and the Browns found themselves backed up at their own 6-yard line. The rookie quarterback out of Colorado attempted a pass on third down from inside his own end zone, but it was broken up by 49ers defensive end Bryce Huff. One of Sanders’ protectors, tackle Cam Robinson, was called for a facemask penalty on the play, but San Francisco elected to decline it.

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) leaves the field after an NFL gameBarry Reeger-Imagn Images

In the NFL, players can be fined up to $11,593 for a first face mask penalty, which can increase to $17,389 upon a second violation. And for his face mask against the 49ers, the league has elected not to fine Robinson after the incident.

Even though Robinson didn't pick up a fine for his facemask, four other players around the league were, including the Cowboys' Markquese Bell ($11,593), the Lions' Jack Campbell ($11,593) and the Titans' Mike Brown ($6,111) and Arden Key ($11,593).

While Robinson didn't receive any fines over his first seven seasons in the NFL, he did pick up three punishments in the previous two seasons. In 2023, the tackle was suspended for four games and fined $3,843,137 for violating the league's PED policy. And in 2024, Robinson was fined twice: once for a fight against the Carolina Panthers ($10,927) and another for a late hit against the Jacksonville Jaguars ($11,255).

Cam Robinson is flagged for grabbing the facemask while Sanders dropped back and was in the end zone. Not offensive holding, so Cleveland avoids giving up a safety and punts. https://t.co/Y97YeeMTDr
— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) November 30, 2025