Detroit Lions running back Jamaal Williams (left) celebrates with offensive tackle Dan Skipper after a touchdown. Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Lions RB Jamaal Williams fined for viral TD celebration vs. Vikings

By Michael Gallagher | Last updated 10/1/22

Detroit Lions running back Jamaal Williams went viral for his hip-thrusting touchdown celebration against the Minnesota Vikings — one that drew a flag for unsportsmanlike conduct.

Now, the repercussions of that celebration has extended beyond just the Lions’ loss of yardage on the ensuing drive to Williams’ wallet after he was fined $13,261 by the NFL on Saturday for unsportsmanlike conduct, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.

“I’ve been doing this forever,” Williams said after the game. “…And it’s not even thrusting. It’s more like a wave…That’s why I should get away with it. I’ve been getting away with it all these years. But now they want to bust me for it. I was p--sed. I was sad and disappointed in myself that I gave the team an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.”

Jamaal Williams earned an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty for this celebration

(via @NFLonFOX) pic.twitter.com/GkNuCs924m
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) September 25, 2022

The celebration came on a 13-yard touchdown run with 2:08 left in the third quarter, Williams’ second of the game. Those familiar with “Key & Peele” likened Williams’ dance to the one that drew an excessive celebration flag in the Hingle McCringleberry skit.

Williams finished Sunday’s loss with 87 yards on 20 carries plus the two scores. He’s tied with Cleveland’s Nick Chubb for the NFL lead with four rushing touchdowns, and he ranks 21st in the league in rushing (168 yards).

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