In 2024, the NFL has faced significant criticism over its stricter enforcement of fines and penalties on players who celebrate with gun-related gestures after big plays. The league’s increased focus on cracking down on such celebrations has sparked controversy, particularly as it struggles to control their prevalence despite issuing fines.
According to a report by CBS Sports insider Jonathan Jones, “NFL executives have been puzzled” by the growing number of these celebrations in 2024 and the “apparent ineffectiveness” of the league’s attempts to reduce them. Despite issuing numerous fines and warnings, players continue to use gun-themed gestures, which the league considers inappropriate and unsafe for its public image.
Amid the backlash surrounding these celebrations, the NFL made a seemingly contradictory announcement on Thursday, revealing that Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum artist Machine Gun Kelly, now known professionally as mgk, will perform at the halftime show during the league’s final international game of the season. The performance is scheduled for Nov. 10 in Munich, Germany, during the Week 10 contest between the New York Giants and Carolina Panthers.
The decision to feature an artist with a stage name referencing firearms struck many fans and media members as hypocritical, considering the NFL’s ongoing crackdown on gun-related celebrations. Fans and commentators were quick to point out the irony of the league promoting Machine Gun Kelly while simultaneously fining players for making gestures that allude to weapons.
Veteran New York Giants beat reporter Art Stapleton joined the discussion with a sarcastic comment: “The NFL has also just fined Machine Gun Kelly for unsportsmanlike conduct (violent name).”
One fan tweeted, “NFL: Machine Gun Kelly = good, Gun fingers = bad,” capturing the apparent contradiction in the league’s policies.
Another Giants media account echoed the frustration, writing, “So while refs throw flags on players pointing after a first down and take money out of their pockets, Roger Goodell hires an artist named Machine Gun Kelly. Only in Roger’s hypocrite world.”
The debate extended to social media, with one fan jokingly asking, “Pretty ironic huh, will he get fined for his name?” Another remarked, “This isn’t a serious league,” underscoring the frustration with what many view as inconsistent messaging from the NFL.
In his report, Jones pointed out that the league has already issued at least 12 fines for what it calls “violent gestures,” totaling $154,720 so far this season. These fines have sparked a larger conversation about the NFL’s priorities and whether the league is overreaching in its attempt to control player behavior.
The Week 10 international game at Allianz Arena, featuring the Giants and Panthers, will be the stage for Machine Gun Kelly’s halftime performance.
However, the on-field matchup might not generate the same excitement, as both teams have struggled this season, combining for just three wins heading into Week 8.
As the NFL continues to face backlash over its handling of celebrations and the choice to feature Machine Gun Kelly, the debate over consistency and image management in the league is unlikely to die down anytime soon.
Fans, players, and media alike will be watching closely to see how the NFL navigates the ongoing controversy.
