The NFL’s Continued Focus on Kerby Joseph: A Controversial 2025 Season

In 2025, it seems like the NFL is making life particularly difficult for Kerby Joseph. After being denied a spot in the Pro Bowl by the league’s coaches, players, and executives—an unfortunate snub that cost him millions of dollars—the safety now finds himself in trouble once again. This time, the NFL is hitting him with a hefty fine for his actions during last Monday’s game against the San Francisco 49ers, adding even more financial strain to his already challenging year.

Kerby Joseph’s Controversial Play: Right Intentions, Wrong Timing

At the heart of the controversy is a decision Joseph made during the game. While everyone could see that his actions were intended to protect his teammate, the outcome of the play was far from ideal. Joseph’s decision to get involved gave the 49ers a crucial first down at the goal line, putting them in an excellent position to score. In terms of protecting a fellow player, his actions were commendable. However, from a strategic standpoint, it was a costly mistake that handed the 49ers an easy opportunity to advance. As a result, Joseph was fined $7,505 by the league for his misstep.

Jawaan Jennings: Another Victim of NFL Fines

While Joseph’s fine might have raised some eyebrows, he wasn’t the only player facing financial penalties for his actions. Jawaan Jennings, the 49ers wide receiver involved in the altercation, was also fined. Jennings received a more substantial penalty of $11,817, a reflection of the seriousness of his actions on the field.

Terrion Arnold: Fined Despite Doing What Most Agree Was Right

Terrion Arnold, a defensive player involved in the same play, found himself fined the same amount—$11,817—despite many believing that his actions were justified. Arnold’s penalty seemed harsh, especially considering that most observers agreed he was in the right during the sequence of events. Nevertheless, the league decided to penalize him, leaving many questioning the fairness of such fines.

Brian Branch’s Ongoing Struggles with Fines

On top of the fines for Joseph, Jennings, and Arnold, the NFL also imposed a penalty on Brian Branch. Known for his aggressive play, Branch was fined $10,128 for extracurricular activity that took place after a tackle on Jennings late in the game. This fine is his seventh of the season, bringing his total fine tally to an astounding $70,896. While Branch’s fines have certainly added up, he does have one advantage: he’s found ways to recoup some of that lost money.

A Season of Financial Strain for Players

The NFL’s aggressive approach to fining players in 2025 has undoubtedly put a significant strain on many athletes. For Kerby Joseph, the financial hit from his Pro Bowl snub and this most recent fine is just the latest chapter in a difficult season. While some fines, like the ones imposed on Jennings and Arnold, might feel unjust to fans and players alike, they highlight the league’s ongoing commitment to disciplining its athletes for actions on the field.

Despite the financial burdens, these players continue to face adversity, but many, like Branch, are finding ways to rebound. It remains to be seen whether the league’s penalties will have any lasting impact on how these athletes play or if the fines will ultimately serve as a deterrent for future behavior.