Lions Keep Drawing The Wrong Kind Of NFL Attention

Despite a strong roster, the Detroit Lions continue to grapple with discipline issues on the field, leading the league in player fines this season.

The Detroit Lions added two more names to their growing fines list after Sunday’s 32-26 loss to the Carolina Panthers.

According to the NFL’s accountability log for Week 4 games, released Saturday, tight end Brock Wright was docked $17,911 for unnecessary roughness after a leg whip. Wright was flagged in the third quarter for unnecessary roughness after a low-block attempt was ruled tripping. He also picked up a false start in the first quarter, giving him two penalties on the day.

Linebacker Jack Campbell was also fined, taking a $15,930 hit for a hip-drop tackle. Campbell was not penalized on the play during the game, and the tackle came in the first quarter.

Wright’s role in the offense has been limited through four games, with four catches for 20 yards. Campbell’s start to the season has been tougher to judge after he signed a four-year contract extension this past offseason. Coming off an All-Pro season, he has had difficulties performing at a high level.

The Lions’ loss in Carolina dropped them to 2-2 and featured a rough day against the Panthers’ passing game. Tetairoa McMillan did most of the damage, finishing with 192 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 14 catches.

Detroit has now had at least one player fined in every week this season. Jahmyr Gibbs was fined in Week 1 before that penalty was ultimately rescinded.

In Week 2, six different Lions players were fined, with several tied to celebrations. Jameson Williams was fined in Week 3 for unnecessary roughness related to the use of his helmet.

Through four weeks, the Lions have been fined more than any other team in the NFL, totaling $177,404.

Around the league, the fine count has piled up fast. ESPN reported that the 963 accepted penalties through four weeks are the most since play-by-play data began being tracked in 1978.

Detroit now turns to Sunday’s matchup with the Arizona Cardinals, its second straight road game. Kickoff is set for 4:05 p.m. at State Farm Stadium, and it will be the Lions’ final game before the bye week.

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