KANSAS CITY, MO – DECEMBER 8: Running back Charcandrick West #35 of the Kansas City Chiefs rushes in to the end zone for a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders at Arrowhead Stadium during the second quarter of the game on December 8, 2016 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

If the National Football League dares to fine Kansas City Chiefs running back Charcandrick West for his postgame touchdown celebration on Thursday night, they will prove they are a soulless organization.

Following a touchdown run against the Oakland Raiders, West lifted his jersey to reveal a tribute to former teammate Joe McKnight.

The tribute was not seen on TV, as the camera angle never got in position it would seem.

McKnight, who previously played with the New York Jets with West, was shot and killed in New Orleans last week. The shooter in the heated traffic incident, Ronald Gasser, was charged with manslaughter this week. McKnight was recruited to USC to follow in the footsteps of Reggie Bush. Bush honored McKnight this past Sunday with specially-painted cleats in McKnight’s memory. The NFL did not fine Bush for the custom cleats as this past weekend, players were allowed to wear whatever cleats they wanted for whatever causes they desired.

Here’s hoping the NFL plays it cool here and gives West a free pass on this particular occasion.

[SI.com]

About Kevin McGuire

Contributor to Athlon Sports and The Comeback. Previously contributed to NBCSports.com. Host of the Locked On Nittany Lions Podcast. FWAA member and Philadelphia-area resident.