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Bills Owner Accepts NFL Fine on Behalf of Lamar Jackson After Fan Incident

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04/30 Terry Pegula address media after firing of Bills GM Doug Whaley -  YouTube

Buffalo, NY – September 8, 2025

The fallout from Sunday’s chaotic Bills–Ravens clash took an unexpected turn on Monday, as Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula announced that the organization would cover the $50,000 fine the NFL issued to Lamar Jackson after his altercation with a Bills fan.

The incident erupted in the third quarter when a fan in a red Bills jersey leaned over the railing after a DeAndre Hopkins touchdown, striking Hopkins’ helmet before shoving Jackson moments later. Hopkins brushed it off, but Jackson instinctively shoved back. The video went viral, sparking outrage and leading to swift disciplinary action from the league.

In a statement, Pegula defended Jackson and placed the responsibility squarely on the fan:

“This was the fault of the fan, not the player. Jackson’s response was a natural reflex to being shoved, and he should not bear the punishment for that. If the NFL insists on a fine, then we as the Buffalo Bills will pay it. Our fans are passionate, but passion must always come with respect.”

Pegula also confirmed that the fan has been banned from attending Bills games for the remainder of the 2025 season, including the team’s highly anticipated move into their new stadium.

Across the NFL, players praised Buffalo’s decision, noting that Jackson showed restraint given the provocation. For Pegula, the move is about more than damage control — it’s about protecting the integrity of the game and demonstrating that the Bills will not let one reckless act define their fanbase.

By accepting the fine, Pegula sent a clear message: Buffalo takes accountability, and no player should have his reputation stained because of a fan’s actions.

Chiefs Locker Room Erupts, Chris Jones Under Investigation for NFL Sports Betting in Jaguars Game - HC Andy Reid Hands Down Harsh Punishment
Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Chiefs' locker room is in turmoil following an NFL investigation into defensive star Chris Jones over allegations related to sports betting. Jones, a multiple-time Pro Bowler, has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through Week 10, while head coach (HC) Andy Reid has imposed internal penalties after a suspicious performance in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. SOURCE: https://x.com/TheNFLDrop/status/1975574483990909165 The incident stems from a decisive play at the end of the game, where Jones – the Chiefs' top defensive tackle – appeared to "do absolutely nothing" to stop quarterback Trevor Lawrence from scoring the game-winning touchdown. According to sources, this lack of effort prompted the NFL to launch an investigation, suspecting possible involvement in betting, a serious violation of league rules. "He just stood there watching Lawrence run into the end zone like he was watching a movie," an anonymous teammate shared, reflecting the outrage in the locker room. Jones, 31, has been a cornerstone for the Chiefs since being selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft from Mississippi State. With an impressive career including 3 Pro Bowls, 2 Super Bowl wins, and 75.5 sacks, he signed a 5-year, $158 million contract in 2023. However, this season, Jones has only recorded 2 sacks through 5 games, and his performance against the Jaguars has drawn sharp criticism from Chiefs fans on social media. HC Andy Reid reacted strongly, penalizing Jones by sidelining him from practices and requiring an internal explanation. "We do not tolerate any behavior that harms the team or undermines the integrity of the game," Reid stated post-game. "Our organization prides itself on discipline and trust, and while we await the results of the NFL's investigation, we'll handle this internally to ensure it doesn't distract from our goals. Chris is a talented player, but no one is above the standards we set here in Kansas City." Meanwhile, the Chiefs' locker room is described as "explosive" with arguments, as some players like Patrick Mahomes express disappointment but still offer support for their teammate. The NFL investigation is expected to continue, and if violations are proven, Jones could face a long-term suspension. The Chiefs, currently at 2-3, must quickly stabilize their roster ahead of their next matchup. Fans are watching closely, with many calling this potentially the "biggest scandal of the season."