New York Jets wide receiver Allen Lazard thinks the NFL will fine him for his celebration after a catch against Denver last Sunday, which included a gesture that officials considered gun-like.
“It’s something that’s very silly,” he said Wednesday. “Very, very silly.”
Lazard mentioned that his coaches have spoken to him about the situation, but he hasn’t received “zero clarification from the NFL” regarding the 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty he received.
During the game, Lazard caught a 12-yard pass from Aaron Rodgers in the third quarter. While sitting on the ground, he made a first-down signal with his hands that resembled a gun.
“It’s very unfortunate that I’m the victim of this situation,” he said. “But it is what it is and it’s part of the NFL and it’s a part of the entertainment factor.”
The NFL has cautioned players against making “violent gestures.” Recently, Atlanta wide receiver Drake London was fined $14,069 for a gun-like touchdown celebration, and Giants rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers was fined $28,128 for two similar celebrations.
Lazard suggested he might contact the NFL Players Association or have the Jets’ coaches reach out to the officials because a weekly email goes out that includes missed calls and corrections.
Lazard added that if he does get fined for his gesture, “they’re definitely going to exempt it” since “it wouldn’t make sense to fine someone for something that you never warned them (about).”
