The NFL has banned Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb’s popular “nose wipe” celebration, saying that the gesture is inappropriate and will be considered unsportsmanlike conduct.
The celebration involves Lamb swiping his finger across his nose, has been a part of his routine since he entered the league in 2020. It quickly became a signature move after big catches and touchdowns, making it familiar to fans across the country. However, the NFL now believes the gesture sends the wrong message due to its resemblance to certain gang-related signs.
Under the league’s updated rules, any player who performs the nose wipe on the field will receive a 15-yard penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct. The NFL says this rule is part of a larger effort to clean up celebrations that may be seen as threatening, violent, or inappropriate for younger fans watching the games.
Lamb responded to the announcement with a tweet that read: “smh, i have plenty in mind,” suggesting he’s already thinking of new ways to celebrate within the new rules. The post went viral, with fans sharing their support and disappointment over the NFL’s decision.
The celebration rules also include banning gestures like throat slashes, gun motions, and sexual gestures. The NFL says it wants to promote a more respectful and positive atmosphere on the field, but not everyone agrees with the league’s way of handling the situation.
Fans and analysts have argued that the NFL is over-policing player behavior and taking away part of what makes the game exciting. The term “No Fun League” has resurfaced, as critics claim the league is focusing too much on image and not enough on letting players show their emotions.
Lamb is known for his confidence and creativity, and many believe this will not stop him from making big time plays.
Lamb will likely encourage other players who like to celebrate. Fans hope the NFL can find a fair way to keep rules while still letting players be themselves, while having fun all at the same time.
Even though the nose wipe is banned, people will still remember it being Lamb’s signature move. Whatever he does next could become the NFL’s new popular move.
As the Cowboys prepare for the upcoming season, eyes will be specifically on Lamb—not just for his catches, but for how he finds a new way to celebrate accomplishments on the field, even without his famous nose wipe.