Vikings’ Okudah Draws Helmet Penalty, Avoids Fine

Minneapolis, Minnesota – In an NFL game on September 24, 2025, Vikings cornerback Jeff Okudah received a penalty for illegal use of his helmet during a match against the Cincinnati Bengals. This occurred in the second quarter of the game, which ended with a resounding 48-10 win for the Vikings.

The penalty happened following a catch by Bengals receiver Tee Higgins during Cincinnati’s first scoring drive. Though Okudah was penalized, he was not fined for his actions, raising questions about the enforcement of the NFL’s rules on helmet contact.

Since the NFL implemented a rule against lowering the helmet for forcible contact, fines have been common but the related penalties have not always been consistently enforced. Many fines have been overturned on appeal, indicating a complex review process.

Despite this, the league issued five helmet-related fines for Week 3 of the 2025 season. Raiders defensive back Isaiah Pola-Mao was penalized and fined $17,248. Dolphins running back Ollie Gordon II was fined $5,045 but did not receive a penalty during the game. Saints defensive end Bryan Bresee faced a fine of $18,581 and was penalized, while Seahawks defensive lineman Leonard Williams and 49ers linebacker Fred Warner both received fines of $23,186. Williams was penalized, but Warner was not.

This inconsistency in penalties may lead to future adjustments in how the rule is enforced moving forward.