Odell Beckham fined for “Sager Strong” cleats

New York Giants‘ receiver Odell Beckham Jr. hasn’t been one shy away from the spotlight, even when it has contributed to a somewhat contentious relationship with the NFL and the national media.

So when he tweeted Monday afternoon about a double standard regarding Dallas Cowboys‘ running back Ezekiel Elliott jumping in to a super-sized Salvation Army kettle, eyes rolled everywhere.

Beckham later clarified that he had no problem with Elliott, “Zeke’s my boy,” he said, or his celebration, saying that he thought it was “hilarious”.

However, he added that he was positive that if the roles were reversed, he would be writing a check to the NFL. “It's just the way the world works," Beckham said. "There's double standards everywhere. I'm sure if I did that, I'm absolutely positive if I did that I would have got fined.”

Thursday morning, it seems that Beckham has been vindicated.

This past Sunday, Beckham wore colorful cleats in honor of beloved NBA announcer Craig Sager, tweeting before the game that he would be auctioning off the game-worn cleats and donating the proceeds to charity.

Many defended the NFL’s decision to not fine Elliott for his celebration by saying that the NFL was putting the well-being of the charity above their own rules that prohibit prop use in celebrations. However, they don’t seem to extend that leniency to their strict uniform rules, even a scant two weeks following their “My Cause, My Cleats” campaign.

The question needs to be asked whether or not the NFL needs to lighten up when it comes to players using their platform to raise awareness, and money for, charities.