The NFL is seeing their brand receive some massive scrutiny from one of their own players. After receiving a fine, he took to social media to call out exactly what he thinks is wrong with the league. The post has since gone absolutely viral.
An active player threatens the NFL, shedding light on a massive issue
Sep 28, 2025; Dublin, Ireland; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell stands on the sidelines prior to a game between the Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers during an NFL International Series game at Croke Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
There’s no denying that DeShon Elliott is furious with the NFL:
The Pittsburgh Steelers safety finally returned to the field in Week 4 against the Minnesota Vikings in London after missing two games with a knee injury.
He intercepted Carson Wentz in that game to help the team score a huge victory overseas.
On top of helping his squad get a victory, he was also punished by the NFL.
DeShon Elliott took to his Instagram story to relay that the league had fined him $5,797 because he wore a black towel during the game, which was a dress code violation (players are allowed to wear towels, but white towels only).
Sep 28, 2025; Dublin, Ireland; Pittsburgh Steelers safety Deshon Elliott (25) intercepts a pass against Minnesota Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz (11) during an NFL International Series game at Croke Park. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Elliott would tag and threaten the league, saying, “Count your f —— days,” Elliott posted on his story. “Y’all worried about the wrong things. Let’s fix things that actually mean something.”
DeShon Elliott blasted the NFL after being fined for wearing a black towel in Sunday’s game. #Steelers #NFL pic.twitter.com/p0hHJTDPQp
— Blitzburgh (@Blitz_Burgh) October 2, 2025
Elliott got fined for a towel, but nothing has been stated after his teammate, Aaron Rodgers, was caught sniffing a ‘banned’ substance during that game as well.
Feb 3, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell speaks during a press conference ahead of Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Here is a look at Elliot’s time in the NFL:
Apr 28, 2022; Las Vegas, NV, USA; commissioner Roger Goodell announces Northern Iowa offensive tackle Trevor Penning as the nineteenth overall pick to the New Orleans Saints during the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft at the NFL Draft Theater. Mandatory Credit: Gary Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
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