Taunting will almost always bring out a penalty flag, and it costs a team 15-yard loss. The NFL defines taunting as “any flagrant acts or remarks that deride, mock, bait, or embarrass an opponent,” and two taunting penalties will result in player disqualification. Taunting is a vague term, but it’s safe to say that it includes any violent imagery, such as appearing to shoot a gun or a bow and arrow, per ESPN. Touchdown celebrations directed at an opponent after scoring a touchdown are also considered taunting, and the simple act of pointing a finger at an opponent can result in a flag, according to CBS Sports.
Players have shown how resourceful they can be when it comes to touchdown celebrations. Some of the more memorable celebrations are clearly premeditated because they include items not related to football. And, of course, such actions prompted more rules from the NFL. For example, bringing such items such as Sharpie markers, cell phones, and other foreign objects will most likely bring out a flag and can even earn a hefty fine (via Sports Illustrated).
