NFL’s Reason for Punishing Browns QB Deshaun Watson Comes to Light

The NFL's reason for punishing Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has come to light.

By J.R. DeGroote · Heavy

Published: Saturday, 10 October 2026 at 11:55 PM

Key Things to Know

Deshaun Watson was fined $14,926 by the NFL for a prohibited 'smoking' touchdown celebration gesture.
Browns players Quinshon Judkins and Austin Barber were also fined by the league for the same celebration.
The NFL permits beverage-drinking celebrations but strictly bans gestures depicting smoking or drug use.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The NFL fined Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson $14,926 for unsportsmanlike conduct following a 27-24 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the fine was issued for an illegal celebration involving a "smoking" gesture following a second-quarter touchdown by Quinshon Judkins.

Judkins and offensive lineman Austin Barber were also fined for their involvement in the celebration, as NFL rules strictly prohibit gestures depicting smoking or drug use. Watson, currently in the final year of his five-year contract, threw for 268 yards in the win.

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NFL’s Reason for Punishing Browns QB Deshaun Watson Comes to Light

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