The NFL and its players’ union clarified which on-field celebrations can draw penalties or fines. Mimicking a drink will not be treated as a violation.
The joint statement followed several fines for celebrations and subsequent reversals. Under the guidance, gestures depicting violence, weapons or gang signs, smoking or drug use, and sexual gestures may draw a 15-yard unsportsmanlike-conduct penalty, a fine, or both. Mimicking drinking a beverage will not lead to discipline.
After Week 2, the NFL fined San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk $14,926 for what it called an offensive demonstration. Juszczyk told ESPN the gesture was a longstanding celebration tied to his nickname, “Juice.” The league rescinded the fine on Wednesday. The joint NFL and NFL Players Association statement followed hours later.
In Week 3, Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson celebrated a touchdown by mimicking a quick drink. The league initially fined him $13,611. Ferguson said he had long used the gesture while pretending to drink Gatorade and appealed. The fine was also rescinded on Wednesday.