The NFL has made clear over the last few years that it's cracking down on celebrations. But the league took things to a new level on Thursday, hitting San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk with a hefty $14,926 fine for a beer-chugging celebration after scoring a touchdown in Week 3 against the Dolphins. The play happened midway through the second quarter, with Brock Purdy hitting Juszczyk for a 6-yard score to put the 49ers up 28-6.
"Your imitation of chugging a beer constituted an offensive demonstration and could reasonably be construed as being in poor taste," the league wrote in a letter. Juszczyk's nickname is literally "Juice," and as a result, he's already appealed the fine. More news: Ben Johnson Gives Ringing Endorsement of Bears’ Likely ‘MNF’ Starter The NFL has long fined players over celebrations, a practice that's sparked plenty of debate on its own.
Many feel players should have the freedom to express themselves, within reason. But generally, the league only fines players for celebrations involving violent gestures, sexually suggestive moves, or use of the goalposts and props. Mimicking a fake gunshot or an obscene dance move is one thing, but imitating a beer chug getting flagged is new territory, especially given Juszczyk can reasonably tie it back to his "Juice" brand.
More news: Sean McVay Reveals Troubling Update on Puka Nacua’s Injury More news: Browns Insider Predicts Shedeur Sanders Won’t Be on the Roster for Much Longer Juszczyk is a 10-time Pro Bowler, three-time All-Pro, and one of the best players on the 49ers roster. He's also one of the most recognizable players in the NFL. However, as a fullback, he doesn't make nearly as much as other stars on the team, like Purdy, Christian McCaffrey, or George Kittle.
He's currently in the second year of a two-year, $7.5 million contract with the 49ers. He does have endorsement deals with several major brands, but a $14,926 fine is still significant nonetheless.
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