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49ers' LB Dre Greenlaw Ejected After Headbutting Seahawks' Ernest Jones IV

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw was ejected during the second quarter of Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks after delivering a headbutt to an unhelmeted Ernest Jones IV. The incident occurred with roughly six minutes remaining in the first half, when Greenlaw pursued Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold on a sideline scramble.

After Darnold exited the field of play, Greenlaw pushed him further toward the sideline, prompting a 15-yard penalty for a late hit.

The confrontation escalated when Jones IV, who was not wearing his helmet at the time, engaged Greenlaw, pushing his facemask before the 49ers linebacker retaliated with the headbutt. The penalty moved the Seahawks to the San Francisco 32-yard line.

This is the latest in a series of disciplinary issues for Greenlaw, who was fined $11,941 in Week 4 for taunting the Denver Broncos’ sideline during a victory over the team. He was also ejected in a December 2023 game against the Philadelphia Eagles after a physical altercation with Eagles chief security officer Dom DiSandro.

The ejection adds to the 49ers’ defensive concerns, as Greenlaw has been a key player in their secondary unit this season. His removal from the field reduces San Francisco’s ability to contain Seattle’s passing game.

The incident underscores ongoing tensions between players and officials regarding late hits and sideline confrontations. Greenlaw’s actions have drawn criticism from peers and coaches alike, particularly after his Week 4 fine.

This report also draws on coverage from Pro Football Talk, Yahoo Sports, NFLTradeRumors.co.

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