Husain Abdullah

Kansas City Chiefs player Husain Abdullah kneeling down to pray in the end zone after scoring a touchdown against the New England Patriots in the second half of their NFL game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, USA, 29 September 2014. The NFL released a statement on 30 September saying Abdullah was mistakenly penalized for the celebration.

(LARRY W. SMITH)

Over the last decade, the NFL has cracked down and changed the rulebook in many areas of play. From excessive hits to protecting the quarterback to how players celebrate on the field, flags fly at a rapid pace each week.

On Monday Night Football, a mistake led to controversy on an excessive celebration call.

Chiefs safety Husain Abdullah received an unsportsmanlike penalty after dropping to his knees and praying after an interception return for a touchdown against the Patriots last night.

Here is the video of what was deemed a penalty:

On Tuesday, the NFL said the call was a mistake. Although excessive celebrations are prohibited, Abdullah, a devout Muslim, should have been allowed to pray after the score.

NFL spokesman Michael Signora explained the rule and error, per ESPN.

"However, the officiating mechanic in this situation is not to flag a player who goes to the ground as part of religious expression, and as a result, there should have been no penalty on the play," Signora said.

Has the NFL gone too far with celebration penalties? Should last night's referee crew have even thought to flag Abdullah for sliding to the turf after a big play and touchdown? Would you like to see the sport ease up on 15-yard unsportsmanlike penalties in these moments?

Vote in our poll and sound off below in the comments section.

Joe Giglio may be reached at jgiglio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JoeGiglioSports. Find NJ.com on Facebook.