CeeDee Lamb’s Signature Celebration Banned by NFL

IRVING, Texas — The NFL is making waves by banning the controversial “nose wipe” celebration, a popular gesture used by Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. The league announced its latest rules update on March 26, 2025, designating the gesture as unsportsmanlike conduct, punishable by a 15-yard penalty starting in the next season.

The decision stems from the NFL’s effort to maintain sportsmanship and reduce incidents of gestures associated with gang culture. The rule, detailed in Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1(d), describes the “nose wipe” as a violent gesture linked to former gang signs, indicating a player is untrustworthy.

Lamb, a Pro Bowl receiver entering his fifth season, reacted on social media, expressing his disappointment with the change. In a post conveying his displeasure, he simply wrote, “smh [shaking my head], i have plenty in mind,” accompanied by an unamused face emoji.

The NFL has a history of modifying its celebration rules, often criticized as overreaching by fans and players alike. Lamb’s use of the “nose wipe” has been a hallmark of his scoring celebrations, joining a range of signature moves that have entertained fans over the years. He has made 100 or more receptions for three consecutive seasons and has recorded over 1,000 receiving yards in four straight campaigns, establishing himself as one of the league’s most dangerous wide receivers.

ESPN‘s Ben Solak noted in his report that the league’s new regulations prohibit various violent gestures, including simulated actions such as a throat slash or brandishing a weapon. The league defines these gestures as contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship. The prohibitions seek to suppress any behavior that may incite violence or conflict on the field.

While Lamb’s celebration ban has sparked debate among fans, it reflects the NFL’s ongoing struggle to balance player expression with maintaining decorum on the field. Critics often label the NFL as the “No Fun League” due to stringent celebration policies, leading to a pushback from players advocating for more freedom in how they celebrate their achievements.

In light of these changes, Lamb may need to reinvent his post-touchdown celebrations. The Cowboys will be looking for his explosive playmaking in the upcoming season, though it remains to be seen how he’ll adapt his style without the nose wipe.

Lamb’s stature in the NFL is significant; he has secured four Pro Bowl selections and one first-team All-Pro nod. Despite not yet achieving postseason success with the Cowboys, his impressive statistics—38 career touchdowns—underscore his impact as a formidable offensive weapon.