NFL fines Steelers TE Darnell Washington for 'illegal celebrations and vulgar acts'

The Pittsburgh Steelers' massive, 6-foot-7 tight end Darnell Washington received an equally big fine from the NFL.According to NFL reporter Tom Pelissero, the league fined Washington $14,926 for illegal celebrations and vulgar acts. Pelissero added that Washington was "showing off the size of his footballs" following his touchdown catch.The NFL fined Steelers TE Darnell Washington $14,926 for unsportsmanlike conduct (illegal celebrations and vulgar acts) — showing off the size of his footballs after a touchdown last week in Paris. pic.twitter.com/MdtmcZXFjA— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 31, 2026Washington's celebration in question came after a second-quarter touchdown catch against Saints cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry. Washington's celebration initially seemed harmless, but the league has been cracking down on illegal celebrations and vulgar acts via fines in 2026.Washington, who was drafted by the Steelers in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, has emerged as one of the best blocking tight ends in the league while also serving as a complete size mismatch for opposing defenders. Through 57 games, including 36 starts, Washington has caught 73 passes for 785 yards and five touchdowns.Washington wasn't the only Steeler fined following Pittsburgh's Week 7 win over the Saints, as wide receiver Brandon Smith also received a questionable $4,916 financial penalty for his confrontation with Saints cornerback Martin Emerson Jr.For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any roster news and injury updates, follow us on X @TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: NFL fines Steelers TE Darnell Washington for 'illegal celebrations and vulgar acts'