49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw suspended one game after headbutt on Seahawks' Ernest Jones
San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw was suspended without pay for one game after he used his helmet to head‑butt Seattle Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones during a sideline scuffle on Sunday, Oct. 11, 2026.
The NFL announced the suspension on Monday, Oct. 12, stating that Greenlaw will miss the 49ers’ upcoming Monday Night Football game against the Washington Commanders on Oct. 19 and will be eligible to return on Oct. 20.
The incident began when Greenlaw was flagged for a late hit on Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold as Darnold ran toward the Seattle sideline and stepped out of bounds. Seahawks players quickly surrounded Greenlaw, and Jones, who was not wearing a helmet, confronted him. Greenlaw, still wearing his helmet, leaned over and head‑butted the helmet‑less Jones, prompting officials to eject him from the game.
Following the ejection, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said, “You’re going to get baited big time, especially when you’re on their bench. They’re going to get close, and they told me that he head‑butted a guy without a helmet. If that’s exactly what happened, then we’ve got to be a lot smarter than that. Can’t do that.”
Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones was seen using a towel to wipe blood from his face after the head‑butt, confirming the physical impact of Greenlaw’s action.
The league’s disciplinary release cited Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1, which prohibits conduct contrary to the generally understood principles of sportsmanship. Greenlaw’s suspension adds to a pattern of previous discipline, including a fine for unsportsmanlike conduct after a taunt of Broncos head coach Sean Payton and an ejection in a 2023 sideline altercation with Philadelphia Eagles security.
Greenlaw may appeal the decision under the collective bargaining agreement. If he chooses to do so, a hearing officer—selected from former NFL players such as Derrick Brooks, Jordy Nelson, Ron Rivera, or James Thrash—will review the case.
The 49ers remain unbeaten at 5‑0 this season, but the loss of their No. 2 linebacker will test the depth of their defense as they prepare to travel to Washington next week.
