The NFL is trying to be fun again.
Over the past two years, the NFL has been mired in politics, controversial suspensions, and relocation talks that have pitted city against city. But the “No Fun League” did one thing to bring some levity back to the field this year: It allowed players more leeway for on-the-field celebrations. While celebrations featuring sexual or violent actions are still illegal, players can now choreograph routines with their teammates.
During their Dec. 3 game versus the Indianapolis Colts, the resurgent Jacksonville Jaguars opted for another type of extra point after a five-yard touchdown run by Leonard Fournette: an “and 1” shot. After the touchdown, Jaguars players lined up like NBA teams, and Fournette threw a “free-throw shot” right between the goal posts.
\n.@_fournette scores the touchdown then hits the free throw #And1 #jaguars #INDvsJAX #WinToday pic.twitter.com/zLmSdAhgmd
— HighlightHub (@HighlightHub_) December 3, 2017\n
Although the Jaguars’ celebration is an impressive piece of choreography, they’re not the first team to give a nod to another sport.
Golden Tate took a page out of the Rock’s book by dropping The People’s Elbow.
\nGolden Tate scored and dropped The People’s Elbow on the football: https://t.co/sBxYk7zvLU pic.twitter.com/DsVMKaX2uj
— Deadspin (@Deadspin) October 16, 2017\n
Golden Tate and Marvin Jones’ ping-pong celebration was on point as well.
\nThe end zone: Where meets pic.twitter.com/0aY56ZjkJU
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) September 20, 2017\n
While Tate and the Lions have had some great celebrations this year, their attempt at curling was a huge disaster.
\n#WatchTheZone Alert!@Lions with the celebration #DETvsATL pic.twitter.com/gEY9XIW3ec
— GMFB (@gmfb) September 24, 2017\n
Is duck, duck, goose a sport? Ask any 4-year-old and they’ll tell you yes. Here’s the Vikings playing a grown-up version of the preschool pastime.
\nSomeone needs to teach the Minnesota Vikings how to play Duck, Duck, Goose... #MINvsCHI pic.twitter.com/5LsS2IYH7w
— Ladbrokes.com.au (@ladbrokescomau) October 10, 2017\n
The Eagles quickly got together for a home-run celebration with Torrey Smith at the bat and Carson Wentz as the umpire.
\nEagles Home Run celebration was better than the Vikings Duck Duck Goose. IMO. #FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/9yd6yfSFxr
— Justin Lever (@JustinLever2) October 10, 2017\n