The NFL fined Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins, quarterback Deshaun Watson and guard Austin Barber for a touchdown celebration during the team’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to Fox News’ OutKick report published October 11, 2026.
The report says Judkins celebrated a second-quarter touchdown by miming smoking. Watson and Barber also took part. Judkins and Watson were each fined $14,397, while Barber’s fine was $6,944.
The report contrasts the penalties with the NFL’s decision to rescind fines against San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk and Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson for celebrations that mimed drinking. It says the league made that decision after discussions with the NFL Players Association.
The available source does not include an NFL statement or explain the specific rule applied to the Browns players. The report frames the different outcomes as raising questions about how the league distinguishes simulated smoking from simulated drinking.
