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NFL Facing Backlash for Decision to Ban ‘Nose Wipe’ Celebration

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Madz Dizon | Last updated Mar 27, 2025 6:37 AM ET

The NFL is under fire for its latest rule change, adding the "nose wipe" celebration to the list of banned actions that will result in a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.

The league informed teams of the new rule this week, citing concerns over its potential connections to gang culture.

This move has sparked controversy among players and fans alike, with many voicing their frustration on social media.

The rule change follows the NFL's long-standing efforts to crack down on celebrations deemed inappropriate or unsportsmanlike.

Along with the "nose wipe," other banned actions include the throat slash gesture and any motion that simulates firing or brandishing a gun.

While the league's intention is to maintain professionalism and avoid gestures with violent connotations, critics argue that the new penalty is excessive and unnecessary.

smh, i have plenty in mind. https://t.co/rn0OliWbb4
— CeeDee Lamb (@_CeeDeeThree) March 26, 2025

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, who frequently used the "nose wipe" celebration after big plays, reacted to the decision on X.

"Smh, I have plenty in mind," Lamb said.

The backlash gained traction after ESPN's Benjamin Solak reported the rule change, leading to a flood of responses from frustrated fans.

According to the full rules report sent to NFL teams this week, the “nose wipe” celebration is now a 15 yard penalty for being a “violent gesture”

Which, I mean, c’mon. pic.twitter.com/JJ0EEgxpQr
— Benjamin Solak (@BenjaminSolak) March 26, 2025

"Someone is gonna have allergies and cost the team field goal range," one fan sarcastically commented.

"The rule committee must all have 1-3 year olds. Trying to wipe their noses usually does turn borderline violent," another joked.

Many fans also criticized the league's increasing regulation of celebrations, with one stating, "NFL has truly become the No Fun League."

Some fans expressed disbelief over the decision.

"It's not April 1st, the hell going on man? What happened to the game that I love?" one user posted.

Another fan took issue with the perceived targeting of CeeDee Lamb, writing, "League has had it out for CeeDee his whole career for no reason. Ridiculous."

Others debated the meaning behind the gesture. According to NBC Sports, the "nose wipe is a gang sign associated with the Bloods, indicating someone is untrustworthy."

"Hey man, I’m not saying they should or shouldn’t ban it, but it literally is a violent gesture if you know what it means," one fan acknowledged the controversy.

Some simply mocked the rule, with one fan writing, "What if they have a cold though? Better be able to bring tissues on the field."

The new penalty will take effect in the 2025 season, and while most fans and players may eventually adjust, the backlash serves as a reminder of the ongoing tension between the NFL’s rule-making body and those who believe celebrations should remain a part of the game.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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