NFL

49ers Linebacker Dre Greenlaw Handed One-Game Suspension Following Sideline Altercation

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Oct 13, 2026, 00:57 IST

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw has been suspended for one game without pay after head-butting Seattle Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV during Sunday's victory. The player is currently appealing the league's decision.

49ers Linebacker Dre Greenlaw Handed One-Game Suspension Following Sideline Altercation

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw has been issued a one-game suspension without pay by the NFL following an unsportsmanlike conduct incident during Sunday’s 32-29 victory over the Seattle Seahawks. The league cited a violation of Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1, which governs actions deemed contrary to the principles of sportsmanship.

The disciplinary action stems from a second-quarter sequence with 6:30 remaining on the clock. After Greenlaw delivered a late hit on Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold near the sideline, a confrontation ensued involving multiple Seattle players. During the ensuing skirmish, Greenlaw, who remained helmeted, made contact with the face of Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV, who was not wearing a helmet at the time.

Disciplinary Process and Team Response

Under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement, Greenlaw has initiated an appeal of the suspension. Should the ruling stand, he will be sidelined for the upcoming October 19 matchup against the Washington Commanders and would be eligible to return to the active roster on October 20. Any potential appeal hearing would be overseen by designated officers such as Derrick Brooks, Jordy Nelson, Ron Rivera, or James Thrash.

Following the game, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the incident, noting that while the team celebrated the win, the behavior was unacceptable. Shanahan emphasized that Greenlaw understands the need for better discipline in high-pressure moments. Teammate Fred Warner, who observed the altercation from across the field, described the situation as unfortunate, noting that Greenlaw was isolated on the opposing sideline when the confrontation escalated.

Impact on the 49ers Roster

In the immediate aftermath of the incident, rookie Jaden Dugger stepped into the weakside linebacker role, recording nine tackles and a sack to help secure the win. Shanahan praised the team's ability to remain focused despite the loss of a key defensive starter during the game.

This suspension marks the second time in two seasons that Greenlaw has faced a one-game ban for unsportsmanlike conduct. His disciplinary history also includes a $11,941 fine issued last week for his conduct during a game against the Denver Broncos, as well as previous ejections for incidents involving Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert in 2022 and a sideline altercation against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023.