NFL hits a Chiefs defender with news he didn't want to receive near the end of the bye week

The NFL has fined Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton $11,817.00 for an unnecessary roughness penalty that he committed in Week 5 against the New Orleans Saints.

Wharton hit Saints offensive lineman Lucas Patrick in the facemask with his left hand at the conclusion of a play during the fourth quarter. NFL insider Tom Pelissero posted the clip of it on X.

It's unknown what sparked Wharton to do that, but regardless he has to keep his cool. The league will fine a player for taking a shot to someone's face every single time it happens. Patrick may have instigated with trash talk, but he never put his hands on Wharton before or after the incident.

This will likely be an isolated incident for Wharton, who has never been known to get into any scuffles or trouble. Sometimes emotions get the best of a player who plays a very physical game. Honestly, the amount Wharton was fined is pretty mild compared to some others around the league.

It's a lesson learned for Wharton. He is otherwise having a great season as a rotational piece for the Chiefs, recording 11 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 10 quarterback pressures and one forced fumble through the first five weeks. Wharton is in his fifth year with Kansas City and is looking to make a big impression as he hits free agency this spring.

There's a decent chance the Chiefs decide to retain Wharton beyond this season. He is a high motor, high energy player who has shown a lot of growth as a defensive lineman. He is versatile and comfortable in defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo's system and could push to become a starter down the line.

Related: Free agent LB with ties to Kansas City could be a fit for Chiefs DC Steve Spagnuolo's defense