The San Francisco 49ers are currently boasting a 5-0 record, but head coach Kyle Shanahan is feeling somewhat frustrated.
This frustration is largely directed at the NFL’s decision to suspend linebacker Dre Greenlaw.
On Monday, the 49ers learned that Greenlaw will be sidelined for at least one game due to an incident where he headbutted Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV while Jones wasn’t wearing a helmet on the sidelines.
“I was disappointed they decided to do that. But it is what it is. I just found out a little bit ago. Just disappointed, but you’ve got to deal with it,” Shanahan expressed in an interview.
The incident unfolded after Greenlaw pushed Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold out of bounds during the second quarter. Following a late hit on Darnold, Greenlaw was ejected and found himself in confrontation with the Seahawks’ bench.
Jones IV approached Greenlaw, and what started as a verbal exchange escalated when Greenlaw leaned in and headbutted him.
In response, Jones IV pushed Greenlaw and shot back a remark.
Despite losing Greenlaw, the 49ers managed to secure a 32-29 victory over the Seahawks.
This suspension comes at an inconvenient time as the 49ers are set to face the Washington Commanders on Monday Night Football.
Greenlaw is eligible to appeal the suspension on Tuesday, and Shanahan has voiced his support for him in this process. “I was told there’s an appeal process tomorrow. I was also told a couple hours ago that he was suspended. I’m assuming he is. Hopefully the appeal process can go better tomorrow and we can get that rescinded, but we’ll see how that goes,” he said.
This isn’t the first time this season Greenlaw has been involved in drama with another team’s sideline. Earlier in the season, during a Week 4 match against the Denver Broncos, he had a heated exchange with his former coach, Sean Payton, which resulted in a fine of $11,941.
Greenlaw, who played just one season with Denver, has returned to the team with which he spent the first six years of his career. This season, he’s shown his value on the field, contributing 37 tackles and one forced fumble to the 49ers’ defense.
