Ahead of Sunday’s Week 2 slate, the NFL made busy announcing fines from the first week of games – including Packers-Lions. Among the penalized parties were two Detroit players, defensive back Brian Branch and receiver Jameson Williams.
After scuffling with Packers tight end Tucker Kraft, Branch then tossed Kraft’s helmet to the Lions sideline. He earned a facemask penalty and was also called for taunting. Many viewers called for his ejection.
Williams also drew a taunting whistle, but only for trash talking after a catch. In his case, even Packers fans thought the league went too far in policing the spirit of the game.
Dec 4, 2022; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams (9) warms up prior to his first game for the Lions coming off injury against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports
Packers fans call out “soft” officiating on Williams call
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero announced Williams’ fine on Twitter:
The NFL fined #Lions WR Jameson Williams $11,593 for taunting after this catch in last week’s loss to the #Packers. pic.twitter.com/xJMYbSyhas
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 13, 2025
Of course, Referees have a responsibility to ensure that tensions do not get out of hand. Especially in a clash between division rivals, things can get chippy. Down 17-3 approaching halftime, Lions players were probably not too happy. In his young career, Williams has already been suspended twice and has sparked concerns over his maturity in Detroit. No surprise to see him stirring up trouble against the Packers.
Still, it was something of a ticky-tack call. One Green Bay backer replied, “Packers fan and this is stupid. I’m all about player safety changes, but shit talking should be encouraged lol.”
Others replied in kind. From a self-described “Green Bay Packer fan in the PNW”:
Really? That does not seem like much.
— Cueball Sean (@CueballSean) September 13, 2025
And another from a user with “Go Pack Go” in their bio description:
Thank God they are finally cracking down on taunting. Said no one ever…
— Brad (@BradNiemi) September 13, 2025
Naturally, Lions fans weren’t pleased either:
😳 WOW… NFL going to be making BANK this year… 🤑💸💰
— Craig (@CraigDen23) September 13, 2025
One commenter referenced Williams’ four-year, $83 million extension announced just days ago.
The NFL heard about the new contract. They want a piece.
— KO (@KnightOw7) September 13, 2025
Whatever team they support, football fans just want to see football. Many of the league’s rule changes, including on penalties, have been made to protect players. Classifying Williams’ violation as that seems like a stretch at best.
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