Few things in sports rival the energy and passion of NFL fan traditions. From thunderous chants to iconic celebrations, these rituals are more than just game-day routines—they’re symbols of loyalty, identity, and community. Across the league, fans have created time-honored customs that bring stadiums to life and connect generations of supporters.
Whether it’s a pregame ritual, a victory celebration, or a superstition believed to bring good luck, these traditions define the culture of football. Here’s a look at some of the most unforgettable and beloved fan traditions that make the NFL experience truly special.
15. Buffalo Bills Fans Jumping Through Tables
Bills Mafia’s table-smashing tradition began around 2015 when viral videos showed fans body-slamming folding tables at tailgates. The bizarre practice has since become a staple of Bills game days, with fans leaping from heights onto tables, sometimes even set on fire. While the team doesn’t condone it, table-jumping remains an iconic, if dangerous, part of Bills fandom.
14. Green Bay Packers’ Lambeau Leap
The Lambeau Leap, a beloved Packers tradition since 1993, involves players jumping into the stands after scoring a touchdown. Originated by safety LeRoy Butler, it’s now a staple celebration at Lambeau Field. In 2023, the tradition celebrated its 30th anniversary, showcasing the enduring bond between players and fans.
13. Pittsburgh Steelers’ Terrible Towel Wave
Created in 1975 by broadcaster Myron Cope, the Terrible Towel has become an iconic symbol for Steelers fans. During games, fans wave these yellow towels to show support and intimidate opponents. The tradition has spread worldwide, with Terrible Towels appearing at major landmarks and even in space.
12. Cleveland Browns’ Dawg Pound
The Dawg Pound, born in 1985, is Cleveland’s rowdiest fan section. Created by cornerbacks Hanford Dixon and Frank Minnifield, who barked at practice to motivate the defense, it’s now a stadium-wide phenomenon. Fans don dog masks, throw dog biscuits, and bark ferociously, creating an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams.
11. Philadelphia Eagles Fans Booing Santa Claus
In 1968, Eagles fans infamously pelted a Santa Claus with snowballs during halftime. The incident occurred during a disappointing 2-11 season, with fans frustrated by poor performance and a shabby Santa costume. This event has become legendary, cementing Philadelphia’s reputation for passionate, sometimes unruly fans.
10. Kansas City Chiefs’ Tomahawk Chop
The Chiefs’ tomahawk chop, accompanied by a war chant, is a controversial tradition at Arrowhead Stadium. Originating in 1990 from a Florida State University graduate’s marching band performance, it quickly became a fixture at games. Despite criticism for its cultural insensitivity, many fans continue to embrace this ritual during crucial moments.
9. Seattle Seahawks’ 12th Man Flag Raising
Before each home game, a notable figure raises the 12th Man flag to honor Seattle’s famously loud fans. This tradition began in 2003, featuring former players, local celebrities, and even team owner Paul Allen. The ceremony electrifies the crowd, setting the tone for the Seahawks’ legendary home-field advantage.
8. Oakland Raiders’ Black Hole
The Black Hole, founded in 1995, was a notorious section of Oakland Raiders fans known for their intimidating costumes and passionate support. Originating from a group of friends who wanted to create a “mosh pit” atmosphere, it became an iconic part of NFL culture. Though the Raiders have moved, the Black Hole’s legacy lives on.
7. Minnesota Vikings’ Gjallarhorn Blowing
Before each home game, the Minnesota Vikings sound a massive Gjallarhorn to signal the start of battle. This Norse-inspired tradition began in 2007 and features an honorary Viking, often a celebrity or former player, blowing the horn to ignite the crowd. The thunderous blast echoes throughout U.S. Bank Stadium, setting the tone for an epic gridiron clash.
6. New Orleans Saints’ Who Dat Chant
The iconic “Who Dat” chant originated in 1983 when WVUE-TV aired a high school football cheer. It quickly caught on with Saints fans, becoming a rallying cry at the Superdome. The chant, “Who dat say dey gonna beat dem Saints,” is now an integral part of New Orleans culture, echoing through the stadium before every game.
5. Chicago Bears’ “Bear Down” Chant
The Chicago Bears’ iconic “Bear Down” chant originated from their 1941 fight song. Fans enthusiastically sing “Bear Down, Chicago Bears!” after every score at Soldier Field. The tradition has endured for over 80 years, uniting generations of Bears faithful in a rousing display of team spirit.
4. Miami Dolphins’ Cheerleader Pole Dancing
The Miami Dolphins Cheerleaders surprised fans with a unique halftime show featuring pole dancing at the 2024 Super Bowl. This unexpected performance blended traditional cheerleading with acrobatic pole routines, creating a buzz on social media. The bold move showcased the squad’s versatility and athleticism, pushing the boundaries of NFL entertainment.
3. Baltimore Ravens’ “Seven Nation Army” Chant
The Ravens’ iconic “Seven Nation Army” chant, adopted in 2011, electrifies M&T Bank Stadium. Fans belt out the White Stripes’ guitar riff, creating a deafening atmosphere that intimidates opponents. The tradition began after a fan poll and has since become synonymous with Ravens football, uniting 71,000 voices in a powerful display of team spirit.
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2. Cincinnati Bengals’ “Who Dey” Chant
The iconic “Who Dey” chant originated in the 1980s, possibly inspired by Hudepohl beer vendors shouting “Hudy!” at games. Fans yell “Who dey, who dey, who dey think gonna beat dem Bengals?” after touchdowns. The tradition has endured for decades, energizing Bengals fans at every home game.
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1. Denver Broncos’ Mile High Salute
The Mile High Salute is a beloved touchdown celebration started by Hall of Fame running back Terrell Davis in the 1990s. Players salute the crowd after scoring, creating a unique bond between the team and fans. This military-inspired gesture has become an iconic part of Broncos culture, continuing to energize the stadium today.
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