Alex Anzalone’s Controversial Hit Sparks Biggest Fine of the Week—What Really Happened After the Lions’ Fumble?

Week 14 in the NFL brought a flurry of fines—18 to be exact—but none hit quite as hard as the one handed down to Detroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone. The hefty $17,968 penalty wasn’t just about a simple foul; it stemmed from a heated moment where Anzalone, right after a Cowboys’ fumble, launched himself into an aggressive leap against offensive lineman Tyler Booker. Booker’s reaction? Immediate and unmistakable, signaling for a flag that never came during the game. Yet, the league’s eyes caught it all, and the consequences followed swiftly. This incident underscores just how closely the NFL watches every move on the field—and how costly impulsive plays can be. LEARN MORE

The NFL levied 18 fines for violations of the on-field rules in Week 14. The biggest went to Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone.

Anzalone drew a $17,968 sanction for “striking/kicking/tripping/kneeing.” It happened in the second quarter, after Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson fumbled after a four-yard gain on third and 21.

The video shows Anzalone swooping in after the recovery with a flying leap into Cowboys offensive lineman Tyler Booker. Booker immediately reacted, throwing out his hand and looking for a penalty to be called on Anzalone.

That didn’t happen. But the NFL saw it, and reacted accordingly.