NFL Fines Patrick Mahomes for ‘Violent Gesture’ During Game

Patrick Mahomes, the star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs, has been fined over $14,000 by the National Football League (NFL) for a gesture considered «violent» during a recent game. The incident took place on November 17, 2024, against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York.

Mahomes is reported to have mimicked a gun-like gesture in the fourth quarter of the match, which the NFL classified as «unsportsmanlike conduct.» According to the NFL Network, the fine amounted to $14,069. The league has been increasingly vigilant about celebratory actions that resemble gun gestures, leading to a crackdown.

Videos and images of Mahomes’ gesture have been widely circulated online. The action coincided with a tough game for the Chiefs, as they suffered a 30-21 loss, marking their first defeat of the season after a string of nine consecutive victories.

In response to criticism and player safety, the NFL and the NFL Players Association have set out explicit rules regarding «game-related rules violations,» which include such gestures. «To protect players from unnecessary risk and preserve competitive balance and game integrity, the NFL and NFL Players Association have agreed on a set of game-related rules violations,» the NFL stated in documents detailing fines distributed to players.

Previously, Mahomes was penalized with a $50,000 fine for «verbally abusing» an official in a game against the Buffalo Bills. This recurring issue highlights warnings issued by both the NFL and the NBA concerning athletes’ on-field behavior and personal safety.

Mirna Alsharif, a journalist with NBC News, reports that Mahomes has acknowledged the fines and expressed a willingness to learn from his actions. Neither the Kansas City Chiefs nor Mahomes’ representatives have responded to requests for comments on the most recent incident.