Patrick Mahomes fined for controversial gesture in celebration

The NFL has fined Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes $14,069 for making a gesture simulating shooting with his fingers after a touchdown pass to tight end Noah Gray during the fourth quarter of the game against the Panthers.

The gesture, caught on camera, sparked debate among fans, as many consider it harmless. However, the league, in its zero-tolerance policy towards conduct related to weapons, justified the sanction as part of its effort to send a clear message against these celebrations.

Mahomes is not the only one sanctioned this season; the NFL has reinforced fines for gestures considered obscene, already accumulating 17 similar incidents in 2024. The controversy continues, raising the dilemma between limiting spontaneity in the game and maintaining an exemplary posture for the audience.

The quarterback, an iconic figure in the NFL, has not yet commented on the punishment.