NFL38 min ago1 minute read

Niners Linebacker Dre Greenlaw Ejected for Headbutt Against Seattle

Dre Greenlaw was thrown out of Sunday's game against Seattle after hitting Sam Darnold late and making face contact with Ernest Jones IV.

The EagleEyeOdds deskWritten from the match data, checked against our model before it goes out

Late hit leads to early exit

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw was thrown out of Sunday's divisional game against the Seattle Seahawks in the second quarter.

The incident happened with 6:30 remaining in the first half while San Francisco held a 14-10 lead. Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold scrambled toward his own sideline for a five yard gain. As Darnold stepped out of bounds, Greenlaw hit him, drawing a penalty flag for a late hit.

Seattle players quickly surrounded Greenlaw on the sideline. Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV exchanged words with Greenlaw. Greenlaw, who was still wearing his helmet, leaned in and made contact with the face of Jones, who was not wearing a helmet. Officials broke up the skirmish and announced Greenlaw's ejection.

History of discipline

This was the third time Greenlaw has been ejected in his career. He was previously disqualified for a late hit on Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert in 2022. He also got ejected for a similar sideline dustup against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023.

The ejection follows an emotional performance against Denver last week. Greenlaw repeatedly yelled at the Broncos sideline and coach Sean Payton during that victory. The NFL fined Greenlaw $11,941 on Saturday for unsportsmanlike conduct stemming from that game.

Roster adjustments

With Greenlaw out of the game, San Francisco had to shift its defense. Rookie Jaden Dugger took over for Greenlaw at weakside linebacker. Veteran Luke Gifford stepped into Dugger's previous spot on the strong side.

What it means for the next game

Seattle Seahawks at Denver Broncos (NFL, Fri, 16 Oct): Denver Broncos win 44%, Seattle Seahawks win 56%; projected score Denver Broncos 20, Seattle Seahawks 22. Our safest pick: Under 48.5 points.

Washington Commanders at San Francisco 49ers (NFL, Tue, 20 Oct): San Francisco 49ers win 76%, Washington Commanders win 24%; projected score San Francisco 49ers 29, Washington Commanders 20. Our safest pick: Under 57.5 points.