Report: NFL looking to lighten anti-celebration rules

The NFL is considering relaxing anti-celebration rules due to backlash over penalties handed out during the 2016 season for what were viewed as minor infractions, a source told ESPN's Kevin Seifert.

The league would still outlaw what it considers excessive, prolonged, or vulgar demonstrations, but Seifert adds that momentum for the change is growing, though no final decision has been made.

Commissioner Roger Goodell said at his end-of-year press conference that the NFL wants to better balance the players' "ability to express themselves in an exuberant way" with sportsmanship.

Competition committee members discussed the matter at this week's NFL Scouting Combine and the new guidelines could be passed at the annual owners meeting later this month, notes Seifert.