NFL Fined Jake Ferguson for Celebration

The Dallas Cowboys tight end was penalized for imitating a beer-drinking motion during a touchdown celebration.

Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Football

Expressive sports illustration of a football player in navy and white gear celebrating in a stadium, rendered with bold brush strokes. — The NFL fined Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson $13,611 for an inappropriate touchdown celebration during the team's Week 2 victory over the Washington Commanders. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The NFL issued a $13,611 fine to Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson following an offensive touchdown celebration against the Washington Commanders. Although Ferguson claimed he was using a Gatorade bottle, the league categorized the move as an inappropriate demonstration.

Why it matters

The fine highlights the NFL's strict enforcement of policies regarding on-field conduct and celebrations deemed offensive. Players must navigate league standards for professional behavior even when attempting to celebrate scoring plays.

Ferguson recorded 4 receptions for 43 yards and 2 touchdowns in the 37-20 win, but the league also issued fines of $14,926 to Kyle Juszczyk and $8,847 to Matt Goncalves for similar infractions.

The players

Jake Ferguson

He is a professional tight end for the Dallas Cowboys who has been cited multiple times for celebration-related infractions.

NFL

This organization serves as the premier professional American football league and maintains the code of conduct for all participating players.

The details

During Week 2 at AT&T Stadium, Ferguson performed a motion resembling the shotgunning of a beer after scoring. While Ferguson later insisted the prop was a Gatorade bottle, the NFL ruled the celebration was in poor taste.

In 2022, Ferguson was fined $4,895 for a Salvation Army bucket celebration.
In December 2023, Ferguson received a $5,812 fine for a verbal exchange.
In September 2024, the touchdown celebration occurred during the Week 2 game.
On September 24, 2026, Ferguson addressed the fine during a podcast appearance.
On September 26, 2026, the report regarding the NFL fine was published.

Season Trajectory

This disciplinary action highlights the league's ongoing enforcement of player conduct codes, which can impact locker room focus and player availability for future games. The fine reflects a broader trend of increased scrutiny on celebratory gestures that may violate league standards for taste.

The $13,611 penalty serves as a reminder of the financial stakes for players who engage in unsanctioned celebrations during games. Fantasy managers and fans should note that repeat offenses often lead to increased league scrutiny and higher fines.

The takeaway

NFL players are held to strict standards regarding on-field conduct and may face significant financial penalties for gestures deemed offensive by the league. Avoiding excessive celebrations remains a key aspect of maintaining professional discipline throughout a season.