Kansas City, Missouri – September 21, 2025 – The National Football League (NFL) has officially announced a fine against tight end Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs for unsportsmanlike conduct and obscene gestures that occurred during the Week 2 game against the Philadelphia Eagles. This information was reported by NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero, just one day before the Chiefs enter their Week 3 matchup against the New York Giants.
The incident took place in the third quarter of the game on September 14, 2025, at the Chiefs’ home stadium, where the team lost to the Eagles with a score of 20-17. At that point, the Chiefs were trailing 13-10 and in a 2nd and 7 situation from their own 30-yard line. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes, facing a blitz from the Eagles’ defense, quickly threw a short pass to Kelce (#87). Kelce caught the ball near the line of scrimmage, used his arm to push away Eagles cornerback Cooper DeJean to break the tackle, and ran for an additional 23 yards to the Eagles’ 45-yard line, securing a first down.
After being pushed out of bounds near the Eagles’ bench area, Kelce celebrated excessively by performing an obscene gesture toward the opposing bench – described as pretending to “juggle balls” or touching his private area. Although the referees did not throw a penalty flag during the game, the NFL reviewed the video footage and decided to fine Kelce $14,491 for violating rules on unsportsmanlike conduct and obscene gestures.
This was part of the drive that later saw Kelce drop a potential touchdown pass at the goal line, leading to an interception. In the entire game, Kelce recorded 4 receptions for a total of 61 yards, but no touchdowns. The Chiefs are starting the 2025 season with a 0-2 record, and this fine was announced right before the important Week 3 game on the road at MetLife Stadium against the New York Giants on September 21, 2025, at 7:20 PM CDT. This game will be broadcast on NBC as part of Sunday Night Football, and the Chiefs hope to regain their form to avoid the worst start since the 2020 season.
This fine not only affects Kelce’s personal finances but could also distract the team as they try to recover from two consecutive losses. Kelce, one of the top tight ends in the NFL and the brother of former player Jason Kelce (now retired from the Eagles), is often known for his aggressive playing style and personality, but this time his actions crossed the line according to league regulations.
The NFL regularly penalizes similar behaviors to maintain a professional image and respect for opponents. This is not the first time Kelce has been fined for unsportsmanlike conduct; he has received similar penalties in the past. Chiefs fans are waiting to see if this fine will impact Kelce’s performance in the upcoming game.
Incident Video: https://x.com/tompelissero/status/1969495554024428009?s=46
