Not Just an NFL Fine: Cowboys Safety Faces Strict Team Punishment for Unsportsmanlike Facemask Grab
Dallas Cowboys safety Markquese Bell is in hot water after a blatant facemask penalty during the team's thrilling 31-28 Thanksgiving win over the Kansas City Chiefs. The NFL has already hit him with an $11,593 fine – but insiders suggest the Cowboys organization won't let it slide with just that, potentially handing down harsh internal discipline for the unsportsmanlike conduct!
The "Unmissable" Facemask That Officials Somehow Missed
Right from the opening kickoff return, Bell grabbed and twisted the facemask of Chiefs defensive back Kevin Knowles, yanking him down in a dangerous and aggressive manner. Replays made it crystal clear – yet referees completely overlooked it, throwing no flag on the play!
The NFL didn't let it go unnoticed, slapping Bell with an $11,593 fine for the facemask violation – his first of the 2025 season. But with the Cowboys struggling on defense (ranking 31st in points allowed at 29.7 per game and 29th in yards at 378.6), sources say the team could impose additional strict penalties internally, like extra fines or limited snaps, to enforce discipline amid their playoff push.
Markquese Bell: Rising Star or Discipline Risk?
The 26-year-old fourth-year pro from Florida A&M has stepped up big in the Cowboys' injury-riddled secondary, filling in for Malik Hooker and Donovan Wilson. Through 13 games, Bell has racked up 30 tackles (15 solo), one interception, and three passes defended.
But this ugly incident has put his reputation on the line. Fans are furious: With Dallas at just 6-6-1 and fading from NFC playoff contention, the team can't afford sloppy, unsportsmanlike plays!
Jake Ferguson Dodges a Bullet, But Cowboys Keep Sliding
On a brighter note, tight end Jake Ferguson escaped any fine for his viral jump into the Salvation Army kettle after a (later overturned) touchdown catch. He helped Dallas go up temporarily, but the Cowboys settled for a field goal before sealing the win.
The Thanksgiving victory was short-lived – Dallas got crushed 44-30 by the Lions soon after, dropping further out of the playoff race.
Will the Cowboys Crack Down Harder?
The NFL's fine is just the start for Markquese Bell. If the Cowboys add tough internal punishment, it could send a strong message to a defense desperately needing to clean up. Can Bell bounce back and help turn the season around, or will this controversy cost him?
What do you think – should the Cowboys hit Bell with extra discipline? Drop your thoughts in the comments and share if you're shocked by the missed call!
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