NFL Suspended 49ers Linebacker Dre Greenlaw
The linebacker will miss one game following a sideline headbutt against the Seattle Seahawks.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Football
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San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw has been suspended for one game without pay by the NFL. The move follows his mid-game ejection for headbutting Seattle linebacker Ernest Jones IV.
Why it matters
Greenlaw, a key part of the 49ers defense with 37 tackles this season, is sidelined for an upcoming contest. It remains to be seen if he will choose to appeal the league-imposed penalty.
The NFL issued a one-game suspension to Dre Greenlaw after the linebacker recorded 37 tackles this season. The total suspension duration and the player's potential appeal remain the primary unknowns.
The players
Dre Greenlaw
A 29-year-old San Francisco 49ers linebacker who has recorded 37 tackles during the 2026 season.
Ernest Jones IV
A Seattle Seahawks linebacker who was involved in the sideline confrontation with Greenlaw.
Land Clark
The referee who announced the ejection following the review of the incident.
The details
Referee Land Clark announced the ejection during the 32-29 victory over the Seahawks after a review at the Art McNally GameDay Central office. The league cited a violation of Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1 concerning sportsmanship after the sideline confrontation. Greenlaw is eligible to return to the active roster on October 20.
Timeline
October 11, 2026: The 49ers defeated the Seahawks 32-29.
October 12, 2026: The NFL announced the suspension of Dre Greenlaw.
October 19, 2026: The 49ers face the Washington Commanders.
October 20, 2026: Dre Greenlaw is eligible to return to the active roster.
Across the Bay
The league's decision to suspend Greenlaw follows the strict enforcement of NFL Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1 concerning sportsmanship. This move follows a consistent pattern of player discipline for sideline incidents across the league.
The linebacker will be absent from the lineup for the game against the Washington Commanders on October 19. Fans should watch for potential news on a formal appeal in the coming days.
The takeaway
The league maintains a firm stance on sportsmanship incidents that occur during game play. Fans should monitor the 49ers' injury and roster report ahead of the October 19 game to see if the suspension status changes.
What happens next
Dre Greenlaw is eligible to return to the active roster for the 49ers on October 20.
Further reading
For more on the team's season, visit Football.
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Should the NFL impose stricter penalties for on-field unsportsmanlike conduct by professional players?
