Kansas City Chiefs’ defensive back Husain Abdullah was inexplicably penalised in last Monday night’s game against New England after celebrating a touchdown by kneeling on the ground apparently in prayer. The devout Muslim’s ‘prayer’ lasted less than two seconds and was no more blatant than the many players who have placed their palms together or have crossed themselves to thank their God, yet an official saw fit to penalise him 15 yards for “unsportsmanlike conduct”.
The incident has led to questions about whether the NFL had something against Muslims? Many players point towards the heavens or make the sign of the cross after a successful play. Free agent quarterback Tim Tebow began a trend for going on one knee and resting his head on his fist, almost like Rodin’s ‘The Thinker’; but has never attracted the attention of the officials.
The NFL long ago introduced rules to prevent over-celebration or goading the opposition. This put paid to the sometimes entertaining dance moves and elaborately choreographed team celebrations; but Abdullah prostrating himself for a moment alone hardly falls into that category. However, he did slide onto his knees, which is the reason the officials gave after the game for throwing their penalty flags.
Asked for clarification, NFL vice-president of communications Michael Signora tweeted: “Abdullah should not have been penalized. Officiating mechanic is not to flag player who goes to ground for religious reasons.”
According to the NFL rulebook, the penalty comes under Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1 (d), which states that “players are prohibited from engaging in any celebrations or demonstrations while on the ground,” however, exceptions are made for going down in prayer.
Abdullah and his brother Hamza took a year off from football, at great risk to their careers, to make a pilgrimage to Mecca. Hamza never got back into the NFL.
