The NFL penalized a pair of defenders Monday for violations of the league's player safety rules.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers all-pro safety Dashon Goldson and Indianapolis Colts linebacker Erik Walden were both given one-game suspensions that will cost them each a game check.

Goldson's helmet-to-helmet hit Sunday on Atlanta Falcons wideout Roddy White, who was defenseless on the play, was his third violation of that rule this season. Goldson was also given a one-game ban Sept. 16 following his second helmet-to-helmet infraction in Week 2, but the ruling was reduced to a $100,000 fine on appeal by hearing officer Matt Birk.

HOT READS: Lions can't trust D
QB MERRY-GO-ROUND: Spinning furiously in NFC North

Walden's case stems from an incident last Thursday when he ripped the helmet off Tennessee Titans tight end Delanie Walker then head-butted the unprotected Walker after he got in Walden's face following the play.

Goldson's suspension, to be served against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, would cost him more than $249,000. Walden would lose more than $166,000 by sitting out Sunday's contest against the Arizona Cardinals.

Both players are also barred from practicing this week. However they can appeal to the league within three business days.

***
Follow Nate Davis on Twitter @ByNateDavis
VIDEO: Around the NFL after Sunday's Week 11 action