NFL Bans “Nose Wipe” Celebration, Labels It a 15-Yard Penalty

The NFL has officially classified the “nose wipe” gesture as an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, making it a 15-yard infraction moving forward. According to the league’s updated rulebook, the gesture is now considered a “violent gesture” and falls under prohibited acts outlined in Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1(d).

The rule states that any violent gesture—including but not limited to a throat slash, simulating the firing or brandishing of a gun, or the now-banned “nose wipe” celebration—will be penalized under the league’s sportsmanship guidelines.

This decision has drawn mixed reactions from players and fans alike. The “nose wipe” has been used by many players as a routine celebration, and some argue that it does not carry the same aggressive or threatening implications as other banned gestures. However, the NFL continues its strict enforcement of sportsmanship policies, aiming to eliminate any perceived violent or offensive actions on the field.

As teams adjust to the rule changes, players will have to be mindful of their celebrations to avoid costly penalties that could impact crucial moments in games.