Detroit Lions defender D. J. Wonnum fined by NFL

Detroit Lions defensive end D. J. Wonnum has been fined $12,611 by the NFL for a hip-drop tackle during a game against the Arizona Cardinals. The infraction occurred with 3:54 remaining in the second quarter.

Under the NFL’s updated 2026 disciplinary rules, players who accumulate three qualifying safety violations in a single season face a one-game suspension. The hip-drop tackle is one of five categories targeted by the league to reduce injury risks, alongside horse-collar tackles, launching, hits on defenseless players, and blindside blocks.

Lions head coach Dan Campbell previously noted Wonnum’s high level of play and his integration into the defensive front. If Wonnum incurs two more similar fines this season, he will be subject to a suspension.