Panthers’ Rico Dowdle Fined for Touchdown Celebration, Turns Penalty Into Charity Drive

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle was fined by the NFL following his touchdown celebration in Sunday’s 16–13 win over the Green Bay Packers, but the fourth-year player is turning the moment into a chance to help others.

Dowdle announced the fine on social media Wednesday night, revealing that he would use the incident to launch a GoFundMe campaign benefitting the Children’s Home Society of North Carolina. The fine, reportedly worth $14,491, came after Dowdle’s celebratory dance in the third quarter drew a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty.

His agent, David Canter, confirmed on social media that the fine would be appealed, while Dowdle said he plans to donate all proceeds from the GoFundMe to charity regardless of the appeal’s outcome.

The lighthearted celebration — inspired by a famous Key & Peele comedy sketch — quickly went viral, prompting reactions from fans, teammates, and even the sketch’s creator himself.

1. From Comedy Sketch to Costly Flag

Dowdle’s celebration came after his third-quarter touchdown against Green Bay, when he performed two pelvic thrusts surrounded by teammates in the end zone. The move referenced a 2013 Key & Peele sketch that joked about NFL touchdown rules, stating two thrusts were acceptable but a third would draw a penalty. Despite sticking to “two pumps,” officials flagged Dowdle for unsportsmanlike conduct. The penalty backed up the Panthers for their extra point attempt, which they missed — though Carolina still went on to secure the upset win. Dowdle later posted on X (formerly Twitter), joking about the situation while promoting his fundraiser. “Key said I got three pumps, but I guess the NFL disagrees,” he wrote. “After much thought, I’ve launched a GoFundMe for my fines.” In a follow-up post, Dowdle clarified that “100% of what is raised” would go to the Children’s Home Society of North Carolina, a nonprofit focused on family preservation, adoption, and foster care. “Let’s raise some money,” he added.

2. Keegan-Michael Key Joins the Conversation

The celebration gained even more attention when comedian Keegan-Michael Key — one half of the Key & Peele duo — weighed in on Instagram. In a video posted Sunday, Key defended Dowdle, insisting the running back had not violated the “two-pump rule.” “Rico. Man, you got robbed. You only did two pumps,” Key said with a laugh. “I’m sorry, man. Now I’m going to have to write a new sketch.” Fans quickly flooded social media with side-by-side clips of Dowdle’s celebration and the 2013 sketch, sparking playful debate over whether the officials overreacted. According to a league source, Dowdle’s teammates — who joined him in the end zone — were not fined. The NFL, which regularly enforces fines for excessive celebrations, did not comment publicly on the decision.

3. Dowdle’s Focus Shifts Back to Football

While the fine has drawn national attention, Dowdle’s focus now turns to the field. The Panthers’ leading rusher missed Wednesday’s practice due to a quad injury, though coach Dave Canales said the issue is minor and expects him to play Sunday against the New Orleans Saints. “Rico’s been outstanding for us all year,” Canales said. “We’re being cautious, but he’s tough. We’re confident he’ll be ready.” Dowdle currently ranks third in the NFL in rushing yards and has emerged as one of Carolina’s most reliable offensive weapons this season. His leadership and humor in handling the fine have also earned him praise inside the locker room. Even as he prepares for another crucial divisional matchup, Dowdle continues to use his platform for good. His fundraiser quickly gained traction online, with fans and fellow players donating to support his charitable cause.