Detroit Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams came out on the right side of two appeals this week, getting both celebration fines wiped away after his actions against the Bills drew discipline from the league.
NFL media reported that the fines, which totaled $14,926 and $11,941, were rescinded. One of the appeals centered on Williams’ “brief gesture,” which he said was not offensive. He also argued “that marijuana is legal in some states if that was the gesture he was making.”
Appeals officer Derrick Brooks upheld the decision to erase the fines, but he still left Williams with a message about how the league expects players to carry themselves after big plays.
“Although I rescinded this fine, please make every effort to celebrate with your teammates in the best professional manner possible.”
The rulings come as the NFL has taken a harder line on celebrations it views as inappropriate early in the 2026 NFL season.
That tightening was spelled out in a joint statement from the NFLPA and the league, which laid out what can and cannot cross the line after positive moments on the field.
“Football is the greatest game in the world. NFL players are admired by millions of fans, including young people competing at every level of the sport.
The passion, emotion, and personality players bring to the field are a big part of what makes the game special and connects them with fans worldwide. Good sportsmanship is equally important.
To clarify the line between player expression and conduct that may result in discipline, players were reminded this week that the following are prohibited and may result in a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, a fine, or both:
1.) Gestures that depict violence, including the use of guns or other weapons, or gang-related signs.2.)
Gestures that depict smoking or drug use.3.) Gestures that are sexual in nature.
“Conversely, recent celebrations imitating drinking a beverage will not be considered violations or result in discipline. The league-wide guidance provides players with greater clarity on how they can celebrate while remaining within the rules.
When conduct falls into a gray area, the league will contact the player and provide direction before imposing discipline. The player will be advised that continued use of the identified celebration may result in future fines.
“Individual and team celebrations are part of the game and help players connect with fans. Providing clear, consistent guidance allows players to express themselves while upholding the principles of sportsmanship that have long been a hallmark of NFL football.”
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