Rico Dowdle’s Touchdown Celebration Draws NFL Attention
In a colorful twist to NFL happenings, Rico Dowdle’s “two-pump” touchdown celebration has caught the league’s gaze—much like how it sparked discussions in the “Key & Peele” skits.
According to a recent ESPN report, the 27-year-old running back for the Panthers was fined $14,491 following his celebration during Carolina’s unexpected 16-13 victory over Green Bay in Week 9.
A spokesperson for Dowdle indicated that the fine would be contested, but in a surprising turn, he initiated a different effort. He started a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for children’s charities, using the funds as a positive outlet for the penalty incurred.
“After considerable thought, I’ve set up a GoFundMe to cover that fine,” Dowdle explained on his fundraising page. “Keys mentioned he had three pumps, but I think the NFL wouldn’t see it that way.”
He added, “All the money collected will go to the North Carolina Children and Families Association, which is dedicated to ensuring every child has a safe and stable family life and focuses on education and preventive programs, as well as adoption and foster care.”
As of Thursday morning, the GoFundMe had amassed over $16,000, aiming to reach a target of $20,000.
Dowdle, who signed a one-year, $2.75 million contract with the Panthers during the offseason, gained media attention last Sunday when he celebrated two touchdowns with a pelvic thrust, leading to a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty that caused Carolina to miss an extra point.
Bringing up the past, it’s reminiscent of a famous 2013 “Key & Peele” sketch featuring wide receiver Hingle McCringleberry, where three pumps led to an official flagging due to a rule against excessive celebration.
In an Instagram post, Key chimed in on the matter, exclaiming, “Two pumps?! They were stolen!!”
Dowdle, who entered the NFL with the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2020, has experienced a breakout this season, recording 735 yards and four touchdowns over nine games with the Panthers, helping the team to a 5-4 record following their recent win.
