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NFL Officially Fines Brian Branch After Postgame Slap on JuJu Smith-Schuster Sparks On-Field Chaos Following Chiefs vs. Lions Game

NFL Officially Fines Brian Branch After Postgame Slap on JuJu Smith-Schuster Sparks On-Field Chaos Following Chiefs vs. Lions Game

Kansas City, Missouri

The tension at Arrowhead Stadium didn’t end with the final whistle of the Chiefs’ 30–17 win over the Detroit Lions, as a postgame altercation between Brian Branch and JuJu Smith-Schuster has led to a swift disciplinary response from the NFL.

The incident occurred moments after the game ended. As players lined up for postgame handshakes, Branch suddenly struck Smith-Schuster with an open-handed slap, reportedly following a brief verbal exchange. The hit immediately triggered a sideline scuffle, with players from both teams rushing in to defend their teammates before referees and security stepped in to separate them.

Television footage showed Patrick Mahomes attempting to shake Branch’s hand just before the exchange, only for Branch to ignore him. Moments later, Smith-Schuster appeared to have words for the Lions safety — a confrontation that quickly escalated. Analysts across the league have since called Branch’s reaction “unacceptable and beyond the spirit of competition.”

On Monday morning, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced the league’s disciplinary action and delivered a firm message regarding sportsmanship and respect.

“We understand football is an emotional and physical game, but actions that go beyond respect and control must carry consequences. When the whistle blows, restraint isn’t optional — it’s a responsibility.”

Goodell reiterated that the league will maintain a zero-tolerance stance on postgame violence, emphasizing that every player — regardless of reputation or circumstance — is accountable for their behavior. After reviewing game footage, the NFL’s disciplinary committee concluded that Branch instigated the altercation.

According to NFL Network, Brian Branch has been fined $11,593 — a relatively small amount for an NFL player, but one that sends a clear message: passion fuels the game, but discipline defines it.

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