#Panthers RB Rico Dowdle got flagged for this TD celebration (even though it was only 2 pumps).

It was a costly penalty. The XP attempt was pushed back and the Panthers missed, keeping it a 7-point game. pic.twitter.com/01w4F6HmKI

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) November 2, 2025

Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle has found a way to pump awareness and donations into a worthwhile cause.

Following his second touchdown in this past Sunday’s 16-13 win over the Green Bay Packers, Dowdle pulled out a pair of pumps in homage to “McCringleberry’s Excessive Celebration,” a sketch from the comedy series Key & Peele. Unfortunately for he and the Panthers, the referees didn’t seem to remember the “rule” (or the premise of the skit) that allows a player no more than three hip thrusts.

So, Dowdle was flagged for an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty—which factored into the ensuing missed extra point from rookie kicker Ryan Fitzgerald. But luckily, the foul did not end up hurting the final result for Carolina—who pulled off the shocking upset behind Dowdle’s 130 rushing yards and two scores.

It has, however, apparently come to hurt Dowdle’s paycheck—as the sixth-year veteran claimed that the NFL is set to fine him for the pumpage . . .

Starting a go fund me 🤣 they got me 🥹

— Rico Dowdle (@ricodowdle) November 5, 2025

Well, Dowdle stayed true to his word, and started a fundraiser on Wednesday evening. And instead of raising money for his upcoming fine, he’s used his platform to raise money for Children’s Home Society of North Carolina.

He, in partnership with GoFundMe, wrote this about his goal:

After much thought I’ve launched a GoFundMe for my fines. Key said I got three pumps but I guess the NFL disagrees

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.

You can visit the fundraiser by clicking here.

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