Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver George Pickens recently made headlines for violating the NFL’s uniform policy with a message written on his eye black.
What Happened?
During the Steelers’ game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Pickens was spotted with the phrase “JP” written on his eye black. The message was a tribute to a friend who had passed away.
Which Rule Did Pickens Violate?
Pickens violated Rule 5, Section 4, Article 2 of the NFL’s uniform policy, which states:
“Players are prohibited from wearing or displaying unauthorized equipment, apparel, or accessories, including but not limited to
- Eye black with messages, logos, or other markings”
Uniform Policy Explained
The NFL’s uniform policy aims to maintain consistency and professionalism across all teams. Key aspects include:
- Helmet and face mask regulations
- Jersey and pant requirements
- Shoe and sock guidelines
- Prohibited equipment and accessories
Penalties for Violation
Players who violate the uniform policy may face:
- Fines: Ranging from $5,000 to $50,000
- Discipline: Including suspension or loss of playing time
- Warning: Verbal or written warnings from the league or team
Previous Incidents
Other notable uniform policy violations include:
- Odell Beckham Jr.’s custom cleats (2016)
- DeAndre Hopkins’ “7 Shots” eye black message (2017)
- Colin Kaepernick’s “Police Pig” socks (2016)
George Pickens’ eye black message may have been a heartfelt tribute, but it still violated the NFL’s uniform policy. Understanding the rules and regulations helps maintain consistency and professionalism across the league.
