Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

NFL Makes Punishment Decision on Trevor Lawrence Incident

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Dec 27, 2025 4:37 PM ET

Trevor Lawrence and the Jacksonville Jaguars improved to 11-4 after defeating the Denver Broncos 34-20 in Week 16. The Jaguars are now riding a six-game winning streak.

The 26-year-old quarterback finished the game completing 23-of-36 passes for 279 yards, three touchdowns, zero interceptions and a 115.4 passer rating. He also had six carries for 20 yards and one touchdown.

On first-and-10 with 10:49 left in the third quarter, Broncos defensive tackle Malcolm Roach was flagged for roughing the passer. It moved the Jaguars up 15 yards to the Denver 45-yard line and gave them an automatic first down.

Jacksonville finished the drive with a one-yard rushing touchdown from Lawrence, extending the lead to 24-17 after the extra point.

Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16).Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Not only did Roach help Jacksonville score a touchdown, but the penalty meant he could be the recipient of another punishment. The NFL's rules enforcement guidelines state that roughing the passer violations could result in a $17,389 fine and $23,186 for a second offense in the same season.

On Saturday,the NFL announced its Week 16 gameday accountability report. After reviewing the play, Roach did receive a $17,389 fine for his hit on Lawrence. In total, the NFL handed out 27 fines, which is five more than in Week 15.

After receiving an additional punishment, Roach and the Broncos move on. Since losing to the Jaguars, they've defeated the Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day and have just one more regular-season game against the Los Angeles Chargers.

As for the recipient of his hit, Lawrence is looking to lead the Jaguars to a Week 17 win over the 8-7 Indianapolis Colts.

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

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