The NFL recently implemented a new rule discouraging taunting. Players flagged for taunting face a 15 yard penalty and an automatic ejection. Defined as “baiting or taunting acts or words,” this highly subjective rule aims to limit one of the most fun parts of sports: talking trash. Penalizing trash talk in most forms, including taunting, is a surefire way to detract from the energy of games. Barring speech or actions that clearly cross the line, letting players talk adds to the game.
An easy way for players to show intensity is to celebrate and jaw at their opponents.