NFL explains decision to fine Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings for celebration

Wide receiver Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings has been penalized by the NFL for his post-touchdown celebration against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, October 1.

After making the “too small” gesture toward cornerback D’Shawn Jamison in the end zone on the last play of the third quarter, Jefferson was fined almost $11,000 by the league for taunting, according to Kevin Seifert of ESPN.

Seifert announced on X on Saturday, October 7, “Justin Jefferson was fined $10,927 for unsportsmanlike conduct in last Sunday’s victory at Carolina.”.
“The amount aligns with a first offense for taunting, and the timing aligns with this touchdown.
Enjoy yourself.
“.

NFL Does Not Issue Fine for Justin Jefferson’s Well-Known “Griddy” Celebration.

GettyDuring an NFL game in October 2023, wide receiver Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings scores a touchdown against defensive back D’Shawn Jamison of the Carolina Panthers.

According to NBC Sports, the NFL’s guidelines for taunting are as follows:.

“The use of baiting or taunting behaviors or statements that foster animosity between teams.
“.

taunting results in a 15 yard loss as the on-field penalty.

The Griddy, Jefferson’s well-known touchdown celebration, avoids league fines for taunting and is known for being a touchdown celebration staple.
According to the NFL, the “too small” gesture, which is popular among NBA players, differs because it is specifically directed at an opponent rather than being a more jovial and general celebration of a big play.

After the game, Jefferson said to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk that his choice of antics was a statement to the rest of the league.

That’s a message to the league, I guess,” Jefferson said.
“I’ll go out there to prove that it makes no difference who tries to rip me off.
I’m going to make a play.
I intend to make a catch.
I’ll go to any lengths to ensure that my team succeeds.
“.

Vikings are attempting to recover from a difficult season.

Even though Jefferson’s celebration against the Panthers resembled slightly smudged coloring, his enthusiasm is understandable.
With the exception of the second half against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 2, the Vikings played competitively in each of their first three games despite their 0-3 start.

Kirk Cousins, the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterback, threw a late interception in the end zone in Week 3’s close loss at home to the Los Angeles Chargers.
Prior to the game in Carolina, Jefferson vented his frustration over all the losses.
He then went on to score twice and help the Vikings earn their first victory of the season and a 1-3 record.

Through four games, 543 receiving yards for Jefferson are the most in the league.
Additionally, he has 33 receptions and three touchdowns, two of which came last weekend against the Panthers.

In Minneapolis on Sunday, Minnesota will now face a crucial home test against the reigning Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs.
As of Saturday night, the Chiefs were 3/5-point favorites according to Draft Kings Sportsbook.