Drake London’s shooting celebration violated longstanding NFL rules against violent gestures

Falcons broad receiver Drake London was penalized after catching a landing go within the remaining minute of Atlanta’s 22-21 victory in Philadelphia on Monday night time for pretending to shoot within the air, a violation of a longstanding NFL rule that prohibits violent gestures.

London instantly apologized on the sideline, in keeping with Falcons coach Raheem Morris, and did it publicly on Wednesday.

“There’s loads of stuff going round on this planet with gun violence that I don’t assume I ought to have displayed there,” London instructed reporters. “So, I’m not too proud of it, and (you) in all probability gained’t see that once more from me.”

The NFL has strict guidelines for celebrations and gamers are reminded yearly that violations will lead to unsportsmanlike penalties.

London’s 7-yard TD catch on a go from Kirk Cousins tied the rating at 21-21. His penalty pushed the additional level again 15 yards however Younghoe Koo made it from 48 yards out to offer Atlanta a lead and Jessie Bates intercepted Jalen Hurts’ go on the following drive to seal the victory.

“We strategy participant celebrations as expressions of exuberance which can be a part of the thrill of the sport. Guidelines have been modified in 2017 that permitted group celebrations, together with choregraphed demonstrations. Offensive demonstrations, celebrations which can be extended and delay the sport, and people directed at an opponent are nonetheless penalized,” NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy mentioned in a press release. “Gamers are reminded yearly and it’s a part of the participant handbook that demonstrations that represent taunting or unsportsmanlike conduct, or delays the sport, will lead to a foul towards his workforce.

“Additionally prohibited acts that happen anyplace on the sector or sideline embrace longtime prohibitions towards throat slash; machine gun salute; sexually suggestive gestures; or stomping or demonstrations on a workforce brand.”

London’s celebration got here 12 days after 4 individuals have been killed in a capturing at Apalachee Excessive College close to Winder, Georgia. The Falcons hosted the college’s soccer workforce at their follow facility final week.

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