NFL Fines Bengals’ Chase and Higgins for ‘People’s Elbow’ Celebration

NFL fines Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins for 'people's elbow' celebration. League penalizes unique touchdown gesture.

September 25, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Cincinnati, United States — The NFL has fined Cincinnati Bengals wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins for their new ‘people’s elbow’ celebration, a move that has sparked discussion among players and fans alike.

The celebration, which involves grabbing the right elbow with the left hand and flopping the right arm forward, was intended as a unique way to signal a first down. However, the league deemed it unsportsmanlike conduct and issued fines of $14,926 each for the first offense.

📄 POLICY WIRE WHITEPAPER PUBLISHED: PAKISTAN’S NATIONAL SECURITY POLICY PRIORITIES

👉 READ BY CLICKING HERE

Chase expressed his frustration, stating that the gesture was not meant to be offensive and that he hopes the NFLPA will take action on behalf of players. He also mentioned that the league has fined other players for similar celebrations, highlighting the need for clearer guidelines.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

Author

Editorial Desk

Policy Wire is your go-to editorial hub for insightful perspectives and informed analysis on pressing policy issues, both regionally and globally. Over the years, Policy Wire has collaborated with leading international news agencies—including AFP, AP, Reuters, and others—to provide fact-based reporting and nuanced commentary. With a commitment to clarity and credibility, we aim to bridge the gap between complex policy debates and public understanding, ensuring that our readers stay informed on the issues shaping the world today.