San Francisco – Fullback Kyle Juszczyk, known by teammates as “Juice,” is challenging a $14,926 fine the NFL levied for a touchdown celebration the league deemed an offensive imitation of drinking beer. Juszczyk told reporters that the gesture has always represented his nickname and a juice‑box prop he carries on his pads, not an attempt to mimic alcohol consumption.

Juszczyk’s explanation

“I wasn’t drinking beer in my celebration,” Juszczyk said while fielding questions in the locker room. “My nickname is ‘Juice.’ I have ‘Juice’ on my pads, and the stadium yells ‘Juice’ when I catch the ball. When I celebrate, I celebrate by drinking juice, and it’s been that way for years.”

NFL’s stance

The league’s email described the act as “an offensive demonstration” that could be “reasonably construed as being in poor taste,” and applied its new point‑system fine schedule, which can lead to suspensions and refunds for repeat offenses.

Team reaction

Quarterback Brock Purdy expressed confusion, noting he had seen Juszczyk perform the same celebration for about five years without prior discipline. Tight end George Kittle laughed at the situation, joking that the nickname might soon change to “Beer.” Head coach Kyle Shanahan reportedly warned players about violent or unsafe celebrations but had not previously mentioned Juszczyk’s routine.

Appeal process

Juszczyk confirmed he is appealing the fine, with a hearing set for Tuesday via Zoom. The outcome could set a precedent for how the NFL interprets non‑alcoholic celebrations under its stricter enforcement policy.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.