The NFL just dropped a new rule, and let’s just say – it’s not sitting well with players. A celebration move that’s been around for years is now a penalty in the eyes of Roger Goodell and the league. As a result, some players like CeeDee Lamb aren’t happy about it. No doubt, the decision has stirred up plenty of controversy, with divided opinions. But surprisingly, a Derek Carr teammate is being very public about not jumping on board!

We have seen many players on the gridiron celebrating touchdowns or intercepting a quarterback in their own signature styles. But among all, the players won’t be able to do a “nose wipe” celebration on the field anymore. At least not without giving up a 15-yard penalty. It’s because Roger Goodell’s NFL has sent the full rules report to its 32 teams this week, and one addition is that the “nose wipe” celebration is now illegal. But New Orleans Saints QB Derek Carr’s teammate Khalen Saunders isn’t worried about it.

As shared by Starcade Media on X, “#NFL has banned the nose wipe celebration. Jaylen Watson is looking for a new celebration, while Khalen Saunders is still gonna do it. (laughing emoji).” According to Page 50 Rule 12, Section 3. Article 1(d), in “SECTION 3 UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT,” the “ARTICLE 1. PROHIBITED ACTS” includes that “There shall be no unsportsmanlike conduct. This applies to any act which is contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship. Such acts specifically include, among others. (So) (d) Any violent gesture, which shall include but not be limited to a throat slash, simulating firing.or brandishing a gun, or using the nose wipe gesture, or an act that is sexually suggestive or offensive.”

The result? On one hand, the Kansas City Chiefs’ cornerback is worried about finding another signature style on the gridiron. While Derek Carr’s squad member isn’t bothered about it. Sharing the same news on his official Instagram account, Khalen Saunders wrote: “I’m still gon do it.” The post featured the official warning saying, “The NFL has banned the nose wipe celebration calling it a “violent gesture.” (If not followed), It’s a 15 yard penalty.” But the question is, why did the NFL become harsh on this celebration style in the first place?

Well, NFL players picked up the “nose wipe” from Atlanta rapper Young Thug. It’s a signature move in his lyrics, but it has nothing to do with tissues. In his song Slimed In, he raps, “Wipe your nose clean, f— your whole team.” The gesture is tied to the Bloods gang, signaling distrust or betrayal. Hence, from this season, if somebody does it, a 15-yard penalty will be imposed by the officials.

However, Derek Carr’s friend Saunders has already decided that he is ready to give up the 15-yard penalty, as the rule isn’t stopping him from celebrating his heart out. But for the rest of the players? It would be a matter of concern, as they will have to look for other celebratory options to start over. Such is the case with CeeDee Lamb as well, whom the NFL directly pointed to.

After Derek Carr’s DT’s disapproval, will CeeDee Lamb follow Roger Goodell’s decision?

On Thursday, a couple of opinions were clear. As soon as Roger Goodell came up with the new penalty rule, players like Jaylen Watson and Saints‘ Khalen Saunders expressed their decisions. Even Chiefs defensive end Charles Omenihu dropped 11 question marks to the news, expressing his state of disbelief. But what about CeeDee Lamb, who is often seen doing this celebratory pose since the start?

On Wednesday night, when Roger Goodell’s NFL imposed a penalty on CeeDee Lamb’s signature celebration gesture, the WR posted his stance. On social media, the Dallas Cowboys Pro Bowl receiver replied, “smh [shaking my head], I have plenty in mind (amused face emoji).” Well, we hope we will be able to see that “plenty” in 2025. But until then, it’s clear there are plenty in the NFL who dislike this new rule.

And yes, how can we forget Deshaun Watson’s comment on it? Although the quarterback hasn’t said anything about the “nose wipe” penalty as of now, his previous comments on the sign are definitely doing the rounds on the internet. While talking about the pose, in 2018, Watson, who is in rehab, said, “I’m a fan of Young Thug and his music. He’s from Atlanta, Georgia, I’m from Georgia outside of Atlanta. Me and Will Fuller, and Bruce (Ellington) when he was here, big fans of Young Thug….Slime is a code word for friend. It’s like, ‘Hey, what’s up, bro? What’s up, bruh? What’s up, slime?’, and that’s their sign – wipe your nose, I guess. So, just a little trendsetter that whenever we get the first down we just slime, keep it moving.”

Now, Watson, like Lamb, Omenihu, and Jaylen Watson, cannot react the same way they did while celebrating earlier. Yeah, Derek Carr’s DT Saunders is promising to be an exception!