​The Carolina Panthers suffered a heavy 59-37 loss to the Chicago Bears on Sunday, but one penalty involving Caleb Williams could bring further attention from the NFL.The game was tied 31-31 late in the third quarter when Williams dropped back on second-and-20 from deep inside Chicago territory. After Williams released the ball, Panthers defensive lineman Derrick Brown continued his rush and delivered a late hit on the Bears quarterback.The officials immediately flagged Brown for roughing the passer, giving Chicago 15 yards and an automatic first down. The penalty moved the Bears to the Panthers’ 11-yard line, completely changing the situation after Carolina’s defense had forced a difficult down and distance.MORE: Josh Allen incident during Bills-Texans could lead to NFL punishmentDerrick Brown’s late hit could bring NFL fineChicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18). Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn ImagesChicago took advantage of the penalty three plays later when D’Andre Swift scored from one yard out to put the Bears ahead. The touchdown started a strong second-half run as Chicago pulled away for the 59-37 victory.Roughing the passer is covered under Rule 12, Section 2, Article 11. The rule protects a quarterback after releasing the ball and states that a rushing defender may make direct contact only through his first step after the release. After that, the defender must attempt to avoid contact and cannot continue to forcibly contact the passer.The penalty is 15 yards and an automatic first down, with disqualification possible if the action is deemed flagrant. The rule also gives the referee discretion when determining whether contact was warranted by the circumstances of the play.What does the NFL rule say?Brown could face additional discipline from the NFL as roughing the passer is among the violations that could result in a fine following the league’s review process. The NFL’s accountability rulebook lists a first-offense roughing-the-passer fine at $17,911, although the eventual amount will depend on how the league classifies and reviews the play.Brown was penalized during the game, but the NFL’s postgame review will determine whether the Panthers defensive lineman faces further punishment.— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —