Years ago, the NFL relaxed its celebration rules but maintained strict restrictions on external props. The Cowboys defied this rule by sneaking a turkey leg into the Salvation Army kettle after a fourth-quarter touchdown.
Quarterback Dak Prescott recounted the team’s efforts to execute the plan without incurring a penalty. According to him, Coach Mike McCarthy initially only agreed to the stunt if the game was well in hand.
Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner, confirmed that he was aware of the stunt and expressed willingness to support it. However, he joked about including a penalty for using the red kettle in endzone celebrations to draw more attention to the Salvation Army.
Despite the Salvation Army kettle being used in celebrations in the past, it usually results in a fine. This time, no penalty was issued. It remains to be seen if the incident will lead to a contribution to the NFL’s charitable efforts and if Jerry Jones will match it.