Dre Greenlaw, a linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers, has been suspended for one game following his actions in a recent game against the Seattle Seahawks. The suspension was announced by the NFL on Monday and is without pay.
Greenlaw’s suspension comes after he was penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct. During Sunday’s clash with the Seahawks, he hit their quarterback, Sam Darnold, while Darnold was moving out of bounds. The situation escalated when Greenlaw was surrounded by Seahawks players and headbutted Ernest Jones, who wasn’t wearing his helmet.
The incident occurred less than 24 hours before the NFL decided on the suspension.
Greenlaw can return to play on October 20 after the 49ers’ game against the Washington Commanders on October 19. He might appeal the suspension under the collective bargaining agreement, although it’s unclear if he will pursue this option. Appeals are reviewed by a hearing officer, chosen from former NFL players Derrick Brooks, Jordy Nelson, Ron Rivera, or James Thrash.
Greenlaw’s emotional behavior in games is well-documented. He has been fined and suspended for various infractions previously. Notably, he chased and threatened referee Brad Allen following a game while playing for the Denver Broncos in 2025, resulting in another suspension.
Recently, Greenlaw was fined $11,941 for taunting the sidelines during a game against the Broncos and head coach Sean Payton. In 2023, he was ejected from a game after arguing with Philadelphia Eagles’ security head Dom DiSandro, leading to disqualification for both parties.
The 49ers have been dealing with suspensions this season, including one for owner Jed York. York’s suspension was tied to a violation of the personal conduct policy following his arrest in Ohio.
These events reflect Greenlaw’s reputation for a volatile temperament on the field.
For more updates, follow Armando Salguero on X: @ARMANDOSALGUERO. He serves as OutKick’s Senior NFL Writer.