Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct after he scored a touchdown at the Green Bay Packers last Sunday to put his team up 12-6 en route to a 16-13 win. In short, he paid homage to the infamous Hingle McCringleberry celebration from the old Comedy Central show, Key & Peele, and the referees didn’t take kindly to it.
Three days later, Dowdle revealed that the NFL issued a fine for the celebration, and he joked that he’s starting a GoFundMe to pay for it.
According to David Newton of ESPN, the running back was fined $14,491 for the celebration. His agent, David Canter, announced they will appeal the fine:
Dowdle rushed for 130 yards and two touchdowns on 25 carries to lead the Panthers to a big upset over the Packers, who entered the game with a 5-1-1 record.
Dowdle entered the year as the backup running back to Chuba Hubbard but got an opportunity as the starter after Hubbard suffered a calf injury in Week 4 against the Atlanta Falcons.
In five games, Dowdle has amassed 764 total yards and four touchdowns. The Panthers have turned their season around with him leading the way, going 4-1 to improve to 5-4 and supplant themselves firmly in the NFC playoff picture.
Dowdle will look to keep it rolling on Sunday at home against the New Orleans Saints.
In the meantime, however, Dowdle has actually started a GoFundMe, but not for his fines. He’s raising money for the Children’s Home Society of North Carolina, which “supports families with foster care, adoption, and family preservation.”
“After much thought I’ve launched a GoFundMe for my fines. Key said I got three pumps but I guess the NFL disagrees,” Dowdle joked.
“Actually, 100% of what is raised through this fundraiser will be sent to 56-Children’s Home Society of North Carolina. Children’s Home Society promotes the right of every child to a permanent, safe, and loving family. They specialize in education and prevention programs, family preservation, and adoption and foster care.
“Let’s raise some money.”
Dowdle deserves much credit for using his situation to contribute to a great cause. Fans can contribute to the GoFundMe through this link.
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