A playoff loss is always tough. In the Buffalo Bills’ case, it was even worse getting so close to a championship just to lose again to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game.

For two players, the taste of that game has gotten even worse. The NFL announced over the weekend the list of fined players, and two Bills’ defenders were punished.

Defensive tackle Jordan Phillips was fined $6,722 for unnecessary roughness (use of the helmet) for a play in the second quarter.

Meanwhile, starting linebacker Matt Milano was punished with an $11,255 fine for unnecessary roughness because of a facemask.

On the Chiefs’ side, tight end Travis Kelce was fined for taunting.

The fines are especially significant because players don’t receive regular game checks in the playoffs. It’s a compensation paid by the NFL, and it was $77,000 per player in the conference championship round.

To protect players from unnecessary risk and preserve competitive balance and game integrity, the NFL and NFL Players Association have agreed on a set of game-related rules violations that may result in accountability measures.

Players are notified of violations and may appeal any ruling. Cases are heard by appeals officers and former NFL players, Derrick Brooks, Ramon Foster, Kevin Mawae, or Jordy Nelson, who are jointly appointed and paid by the NFL/NFLPA. The decisions made are final and binding.

The fines collected are donated to the Professional Athletes Foundation to support Legends in need and the NFL Foundation to further support the health, safety and wellness of athletes across all levels, including youth football and the communities that support the game.