Joint Statement from the NFL and NFLPA on Sportsmanship

The NFL is giving players some additional guidance on what they can and can’t do when celebrating on the field. The league sent out a reminder this week outlining which gestures could lead to a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, a fine, or both. Gun-related gestures, smoking motions and sexually suggestive celebrations remain off limits, but pretending to drink a beverage is apparently just fine.

The league also says players will get a warning before being fined for celebrations that fall into a gray area. Here is the full statement from the NFL, released on October 7, 2026.

Joint Statement from the NFL and NFLPA on Sportsmanship

October 7, 2026 – Football is the greatest game in the world. NFL players are admired by millions of fans, including young people competing at every level of the sport.

The passion, emotion, and personality players bring to the field are a big part of what makes the game special and connects them with fans worldwide. Good sportsmanship is equally important.

To clarify the line between player expression and conduct that may result in discipline, players were reminded this week that the following are prohibited and may result in a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, a fine, or both:

• Gestures that depict violence, including the use of guns or other weapons, or gang-related signs.
• Gestures that depict smoking or drug use.
• Gestures that are sexual in nature.

Conversely, recent celebrations imitating drinking a beverage will not be considered violations or result in discipline. The league-wide guidance provides players with greater clarity on how they can celebrate while remaining within the rules.

When conduct falls into a gray area, the league will contact the player and provide direction before imposing discipline. The player will be advised that continued use of the identified celebration may result in future fines.

Individual and team celebrations are part of the game and help players connect with fans. Providing clear, consistent guidance allows players to express themselves while upholding the principles of sportsmanship that have long been a hallmark of NFL football.

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