NFL Referee (Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb will have to scrap the signature celebration gesture from his toolbox ASAP.
Since turning pro in 2020, CeeDee Lamb has performed the popular “nose wipe” gesture to celebrate first downs. Unfortunately for Lamb and his many fans, the nose wipe celly is to be no more.
According to a report from ESPN’s Benjamin Solak, the “nose wipe” celebration is now being deemed a “violent gesture” that will result in a 15-yard penalty if committed. Article 1 (d) in Section 3 of Rule 12 now says that the following is considered an act of unsportsmanlike conduct:
“Any violent gesture, which shall include but not be limited to a throat slash, simulating firing or brandishing a gun, or using the “nose wipe” gesture, or an act that is sexually suggestive or offensive.”
The full rule’s text can be seen below:
CeeDee Lamb didn’t take long to acknowledge the rule change with this hilarious post on X/Twitter:
The NFL has cracked down on taunting gestures, excessive, over-the-top and popular NFL celebrations for over a decade now. Gone are the days when players could chug popcorn (Terrell Owens), dunk over the goal post (Jimmy Graham, among others) or use a cell phone hidden in the goal post (Joe Horn).
But the NFL’s rule changes haven’t completely stopped players from performing such celebrations. There are still many instances of players getting flagged for taunting or performing a celebration that the refs deem inappropriate.
CeeDee Lamb Had A Strong 2024 Season On Disappointing Cowboys Team
Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb (Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images)
The Cowboys were among football’s biggest disappointments in 2024, finishing 7-10 after recording three straight 12-win seasons. But it didn’t stop CeeDee Lamb from turning in another excellent season, as the four-time Pro Bowler racked up 101 receptions for 1,94 yards and six touchdowns in 15 games.
Dallas’ 2020 first-round pick has now exceeded 1,000 yards in four straight seasons, including a career-high 1,749 in 2023.
