Buccaneers' McCoy believes NFL 'handcuffing' players for self-expression

Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Gerald McCoy believes the NFL is going too far in limiting the right to self-expression on the field.

The league has been criticized for doling out numerous fines to players for celebrating after touchdowns, and McCoy expressed his displeasure with the NFL's constant penalization.

"We've got handcuffs on," McCoy said to ESPN's Jenna Laine. "I don't mind saying that because that's what I believe - the NFL is putting handcuffs on us and not letting us express ourselves.

"Guys get to express themselves and show what's in their heart and what means a lot to them. We don't get a chance to express ourselves much. That's why there (are) a lot of fines going on, a lot of flags going on."

McCoy also said that commissioner Roger Goodell is contradicting himself, asking the 2010 NFL Draft class to play with uninhibited joy upon turning professional.

"I know for a fact that when I was a rookie coming (into the league), Roger Goodell himself told us, my class, when we were in his office, was to show emotion on draft day. And to be able to express how (we) feel playing this game and to show the joy, the excitement you get from having an opportunity to play in the NFL. So when guys are doing that and getting flagged for it, what kind of sense does that make?

"It's not like anybody is flipping the bird to the fans or anything like that - guys are dancing maybe. It's just excitement from making a play. Guys are not cursing out reporters or anything. It takes the fun out of the game. You don't know what you can and can't do anymore. For them to give us an opportunity to express ourselves this week on our cleats is great."