NFL Fans Criticize League for 'No Fun League' After Juszczyk's Fine for Beer-Chugging Celebration

Furious NFL fans have voiced their frustration with the league's enforcement of celebration rules after San Francisco 49ers player Kyle Juszczyk was handed a $14,926 fine for his touchdown celebration on Sunday. Juszczyk's penalty was for what the league termed an 'offensive demonstration.'

The fine came after Juszczyk, following a touchdown in the 49ers' 35-13 victory over the Dolphins, performed his signature move where he tilted his head back and mimed drinking from a bottle.

According to the league's notification, "Your imitation of chugging a beer constituted an offensive demonstration and could reasonably be construed as being in poor taste." The NFL also stated that further violations would lead to escalated disciplinary action, potentially including suspension.

Juszczyk, whose nickname is 'Juice,' has appealed the fine, with ESPN reporting he stated, "I don't even drink beer." He also took to social media platform X to comment on the situation, writing, "Can't make this stuff up."

Fans and former players have questioned the decision, noting that Juszczyk has used this celebration throughout his career without prior issue. The 49ers player has been with the team since 2017, earning eight Pro Bowl selections.

Former NFL player J.J. Watt questioned the league's interpretation on X, suggesting, "For a guy whose nickname is Juice, could it not be 'reasonably construed' that he is drinking... stay with me here... Juice?"

Other fans expressed similar sentiments online, with one user commenting, "This is DUMB. What if he was drinking water? They literally sell beer in the stadiums." Another added, "Some of the NFLs main sponsors are beer companies. I’m getting sick of this. This leagues soft and they know it."

Juszczyk was not the only player penalized for an imitation drink celebration over the weekend. Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Matt Goncalves received an $8,847 fine for pretending to open a football and drink from it after a touchdown.

These fines come amid a broader wave of player frustration regarding the league's stricter stance on celebrations at the beginning of the 2026 season. Cincinnati Bengals wide receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins have also been fined for their routine that incorporates a first-down signal, a tribute to Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson's "People's Elbow."

Chase previously voiced his discontent, urging players to unite with the NFL Players Association to contest the strict enforcement. "They're just stopping the fun," Chase stated. "It is what it is."