Rico Dowdle Fined for “Two-Pump” Celebration Gesture
Rico Dowdle, the running back for the Carolina Panthers, recently discovered that his celebratory gesture led to a fine. During a victory against the Green Bay Packers, Dowdle mistakenly believed his “two-pump” celebration was acceptable under NFL rules. However, the league made it clear that it is not.
Understanding the Fine for “Two-Pump” Celebration
Following the game, Dowdle took to social media to announce that he had been fined for his actions. He humorously shared, “Starting a go fund me,” indicating his surprise at the league’s decision. Despite the setback, Dowdle launched a GoFundMe campaign, with all contributions directed to the Children’s Home Society of North Carolina, Inc.
Community Support and Fundraising
In just a few hours, the GoFundMe page raised over $2,000, showcasing the support from fans. While Dowdle did not disclose the exact amount of his penalty, it is anticipated to be around $14,491, based on previous fines during the season.
Context of the NFL Fines
Interestingly, an earlier incident in Week 9 saw several New England Patriots players performing a “one-pump” celebration without facing any fines or penalties. This discrepancy highlights the NFL’s stringent regulations on celebratory actions, particularly the difference between one and two pumps.
- Player: Rico Dowdle
- Team: Carolina Panthers
- Opponents: Green Bay Packers
- Estimated Fine: $14,491
- GoFundMe Amount Raised: Over $2,000
- Beneficiary: Children’s Home Society of North Carolina, Inc.
This incident emphasizes the NFL’s strict enforcement of celebration rules and the potential for player fines. As Rico Dowdle navigates this unexpected situation, he has turned the event into a positive outcome for a charitable cause. With the support from his community, he aims to make a difference beyond the football field.
