Green Bay Packers safety Xavier McKinney has been fined $25,000 by the NFL for publicly criticizing officials following the team's 20-17 loss to the Detroit Lions. However, the All-Pro defender made it clear that he has no regrets about speaking up for his teammates.
McKinney confirmed the punishment after Green Bay's 27-19 win over the Carolina Panthers on Thursday night. He also dismissed concerns about the financial hit, saying he was willing to accept the consequences.
“I make enough money so I’ll be OK,” McKinney said.
The NFL officially fined Packers safety Xavier McKinney $25,000 for his post-game criticism of officials after Green Bay’s loss in Detroit. https://t.co/tyD9J6plXF
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 31, 2026
The safety's frustration comes from several disputed calls during the Week 7 loss in Detroit. Green Bay was penalized eight times for 81 yards, including two roughing-the-passer flags and an unnecessary roughness penalty against defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt.
The call against Wyatt followed a play involving Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. The receiver got back up after appearing to go down following a short reception, and Wyatt tackled him again. Officials penalized the Packers defender, giving Detroit a first down near the goal line. Jared Goff connected with Jameson Williams for a touchdown two plays later.
Article Continues BelowMcKinney questioned the decision and other calls after the game, expressing his frustration with the officiating.
“I don’t think it’s great officiating, if I’m being completely honest. I think it’s bullshit a lot of the times,” he said.
However, the NFL's rules allow disciplinary action against players who publicly criticize officials, and the league has now enforced that policy against him. The safety, however, has shown little interest in backing away from his criticism.

