Panthers’ Dowdle Fined for Celebration Inspired by "Key & Peele"

Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle says the NFL fined him for his celebration during Sunday’s win over the Green Bay Packers, a move inspired by the popular “Key & Peele” McCringleberry sketch.

“Starting a go fund me… they got me,” the running back posted on X.

Dowdle celebrated his second touchdown of the game with two thrusts before stopping short of a third, referencing the comedy skit that mocks the NFL’s crackdown on excessive celebrations. Still, officials flagged him for unsportsmanlike conduct, resulting in a 15-yard penalty and a fine.

Dowdle was shocked but the flag, holding up two fingers as he left the field.

“From my understanding and everything I’ve learned, we go over stuff like this every week in the meeting room. I definitely think you’re supposed to get two pumps,” he said after the game.

Despite the fine, Dowdle continues to shine this season. He ranks third in the NFL with 735 rushing yards and has scored four touchdowns, all while starting just three games since taking over for Chuba Hubbard.

Dowdle is playing on a one-year, $2.75 million contract, a modest figure for one of the league’s top-performing backs this season.