Bengals' Germaine Pratt Fined for Helmet Hit

Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt has been fined $22,511 for unnecessary roughness due to a helmet-to-helmet hit on Pittsburgh Steelers running back Najee Harris during their Week 18 matchup, which the Bengals won 19-17. This fine comes despite Pratt not being penalized during the game, highlighting the NFL's commitment to player safety. Cincinnati ended their season with a 9-8 record, missing the playoffs even after a five-game winning streak. Fans reacted to the irony of Pratt's fine coming post-season, with some humorously noting the timing as he planned a trip to Cancun. Additionally, Steelers wide receiver George Pickens was also fined $22,511 for a facemask penalty in the same game, marking his tenth fine this season. The NFL uses fines to support various causes, with approximately $4 million donated annually to aid players and youth football initiatives.