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SeahawksJaxon Smith-Njigba Penalized for Goalpost Dunk on MNF as Referee Intervenes in Sideline Melee

League rules that forbid using the goalpost as a prop leave him eligible for a fine under the unsportsmanlike-conduct schedule.

Overview

  • After an 11-yard touchdown catch from Sam Darnold, Smith-Njigba dunked the ball over the crossbar and drew a 15-yard unsportsmanlike-conduct penalty under Rule 12, Section 3.
  • The league’s fine guidance lists $14,491 for a first unsportsmanlike offense, though no additional discipline had been announced as of Tuesday morning.
  • Later in the game, referee Nathan Jones stepped between Smith-Njigba and Texans players to shield the helmet-less receiver during a sideline confrontation.
  • The dunk celebration and the official’s intervention circulated widely on social media, with many fans criticizing the NFL’s celebration restrictions.
  • Smith-Njigba leads the league with 819 receiving yards through seven weeks, and Seattle improved to 5-2 with a 27-19 win over Houston.