Kansas City, MO – October 10, 2025
The NFL has officially handed down its ruling following Monday night’s heated showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and Jacksonville Jaguars — and the verdict is in. Star wide receiver
Marquise “Hollywood” Brown has been suspended for one game and fined $23,222 for what the league called “a violent and unsportsmanlike strike on an opposing player.”
The incident unfolded midway through the second quarter when Brown appeared to throw a punch at Jaguars cornerback
Jourdan Lewis after an incomplete sideline pass. Officials flagged the Chiefs for unnecessary roughness but stopped short of ejecting Brown — a decision that immediately sparked outrage across social media and prompted the league to review the footage overnight.
Commissioner Roger Goodell announced the league’s findings Friday morning, stating:
“The NFL holds all players to the highest standards of professionalism and respect for the game. Actions that endanger another player or compromise the integrity of competition will not be tolerated.”
Under the NFL’s on-field conduct policy, striking or punching an opponent is considered a major offense, typically carrying fines between $15,000 and $35,000 and possible suspension based on intent. Brown’s act was deemed
“deliberate and excessive contact”, warranting both the suspension and a $23,222 fine — slightly below the maximum threshold.
The punishment delivers a blow to Kansas City’s offense, which has struggled to find consistency early in the season. Brown — one of
Patrick Mahomes’ newest and most dynamic targets — has recorded 21 catches for 247 yards and one touchdown, injecting much-needed explosiveness into the passing game.
In an official team statement, the
Chiefs said they “respect the league’s decision and remain focused on preparing for next week.” Sources close to the organization expect Brown to issue a public apology before serving his suspension.
As for Jourdan Lewis, the Jaguars cornerback declined interviews after the game, though sideline footage showed him visibly furious and restrained by teammates as tempers flared.
The league’s swift ruling sends a clear message — emotion is part of the game, but crossing the line comes with consequences. For Kansas City, it’s a reminder that composure matters just as much as talent in the chase for another Lombardi.
