Alabama State's most prominent NFL alumnus made headlines this week — just not the kind any player wants.
Tytus Howard, starting right tackle for the Cleveland Browns, was hit with a $12,537 fine by the NFL for a tripping penalty committed during the preseason, the largest disciplinary fine handed down across the entire league in the 2026 preseason. The penalty stands out not just for its size, but for its context: preseason fines are typically assessed at reduced amounts since players aren't receiving their regular-season game checks. That the league still landed on $12,537 signals how seriously the infraction was regarded.
Howard, an Alabama State product who has carved out a starting role on Cleveland's offensive line, now carries the unwanted distinction of being the preseason's most-fined player. For a lineman whose value is built on discipline and technique in the trenches, the flag — and its price tag — is a notable blemish heading into the regular season.
No other Alabama State alumni activity was reported across the league during the period. Keenan Isaac (Browns, LB) and Mikey Victor (Steelers, LB) did not generate notable news during the week of August 30–September 5.
For Hornets faithful tracking their NFL representatives, the spotlight this week belonged entirely to Howard — for better or worse. The regular season will offer him the chance to redirect that attention back to his play between the lines.
AI-generated summary
