Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill has declared that he will pay the salary of a photographer whose game credential was suspended by the NFL. Photographer Kevin Fitzgibbons, who is contracted by the NFL to shoot Dolphins home games, was suspended for the remainder of the season due to his involvement in Hill’s touchdown celebration against the Carolina Panthers in Week 6. Hill had taken Fitzgibbons’ cellphone and filmed himself doing a backflip, which caused the photographer to leave the field and send the clip to the NFL. Although Hill stated that the incident was unplanned, Fitzgibbons claimed that the league did not appreciate his reaction after the celebration. The NFL informed Fitzgibbons of his suspension, emphasizing that regardless of his prior knowledge of the celebration, he had to be disciplined for his actions on the sidelines.
When questioned about the penalty he received for using a prop in his celebration, Hill diverted the blame away from Fitzgibbons. He described the incident as something that “kind of happened” and justified his actions by stating that he saw the camera and decided to take it. Hill expressed his solidarity with Fitzgibbons and assured him that he would cover any lost wages. He highlighted their longstanding friendship and declared that he would do what is right to ensure that Fitzgibbons is not out of a job. Despite the suspension, Fitzgibbons remains an NFL employee and is not prohibited from participating in future events.
Kevin Fitzgibbons, a 20-year-old student at the University of Miami, has been working as a contracted videographer and photographer for the NFL since the 2022 season. Apart from his NFL assignments, he has also worked on personal projects with players such as Tyreek Hill and Saquon Barkley. In a video, Fitzgibbons expressed his understanding of the NFL’s decision to suspend him and thanked the league for the opportunities it had provided. While his game access has been temporarily revoked due to multiple violations of NFL policy, he is still encouraged to engage in various off-field league events and continue his collaboration with players.
Following the incident, Fitzgibbons’ video went viral, accumulating millions of views on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. The footage of the celebration and the subsequent reaction of the photographer resonated with viewers, drawing considerable attention and appreciation for Fitzgibbons’ work. The viral nature of the video not only highlighted the incident itself but also exposed the behind-the-scenes dynamics of NFL games.
The situation has undoubtedly tested the bond between Tyreek Hill and Kevin Fitzgibbons. Hill’s commitment to supporting his friend, despite the repercussions it may have on his own reputation, speaks to the strength of their relationship. It is clear that their association extends beyond the confines of the football field, with Hill emphasizing their “long history together.” This incident presents an opportunity for the NFL to reflect on the relationship between players and photographers, highlighting the complexities of the interactions that occur on and off the field.
The suspension of photographer Kevin Fitzgibbons has prompted Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill to pledge financial support. The incident serves as a reminder of the impact NFL celebrations can have on others involved in the game, such as photographers. While the league has taken disciplinary action, it is crucial to consider the nuances and dynamics of these situations to foster a better understanding between the players, photographers, and the NFL as a whole. Through Hill’s commitment to standing by Fitzgibbons and the viral attention the incident received, this series of events presents an opportunity for growth and improved relations within the realm of professional football.
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