Kansas City, MO — September 22, 2025 — Following a touchdown celebration that included a “throat slash” gesture in the Chiefs’ 22–9 win over the New York Giants, Kareem Hunt was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct and now faces discipline viewed as stringent under the NFL’s tightened 2025 celebration standards. The on-field penalty pushed the point-after attempt back, and—per standard procedure—the league will review the footage and announce a fine later this week.
In a firm message on professional conduct, Commissioner Roger Goodell was quoted as saying: “After reviewing the tape once again, that action is an endorsement of stupid hypocritical ways and is considered unsportsmanlike behavior. The ‘throat slash’ will not be permitted in the NFL; we will consider and assign an appropriate punishment.” The statement reflects the league’s consistent stance that any celebration perceived as violent/threatening, provocative, or offensive falls under unsportsmanlike conduct and can result in fines, with escalated penalties for repeat offenses.
The move involving Hunt comes just one day after Travis Kelce was fined by the NFL for unsportsmanlike behavior during the Week 2 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. Kelce’s case is seen as a reference point for first-offense penalties in this category; accordingly, observers expect Hunt’s fine to be at least comparable, and possibly higher, as the league “cracks down” to re-establish standards.
According to internal league guidance, the NFL’s football operations group has instructed officiating crews to increase scrutiny of banned celebrations in 2025, specifically naming the “throat slash,” mock-weapon gestures, and other insulting acts. Officials are empowered to throw flags immediately, while the NFL post-reviews footage to levy fines. As a seasoned veteran, Hunt is expected to adjust his behavior in the coming weeks to avoid cumulative violations that could trigger harsher discipline.
The Chiefs have not commented on a specific fine amount. However, with a morale-boosting victory in hand, the coaching staff is expected to reinforce the message of discipline and emotional control across the roster to prevent unnecessary penalties that affect field position and offensive rhythm. The NFL is slated to publish its weekly list of financial penalties at week’s end, which will further clarify the “new floor” for celebrations deemed beyond the line.
Video source: A clip circulating on X shows Kareem Hunt making a clear “throat slash” gesture immediately after crossing the goal line; officials can be seen throwing a flag as the celebration concludes, and the broadcast audio references unsportsmanlike conduct under the NFL’s 2025 crackdown on prohibited gestures. Watch the play
