NFL Fines 49ers' Kyle Juszczyk Nearly $15,000 for Beer-Chugging Celebration

The NFL has fined San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk $14,926 for an end-zone celebration that mimicked chugging a beer, labeling the act an "offensive demonstration" and "in poor taste." The fine letter, sent to Juszczyk, stated that players are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the game and is consistent with NFL standards of sportsmanship.

Juszczyk's celebration occurred after he scored a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins. The league's communication to Juszczyk specified the violation under Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1, for his "imitation of chugging a beer" at the 5:46 mark of the third quarter.

The fine comes amidst the NFL's multi-year sponsorship deal with Anheuser-Busch, whose brands include Bud Light, serving as the official beer and hard seltzer sponsor through the 2026-27 season. This partnership includes promotional agreements with over two dozen current NFL players featured in national campaigns.

Adding to the irony, Juszczyk is widely known by the nickname "Juice." He has publicly stated that he does not drink beer and finds the league's action difficult to comprehend. "Can't make this stuff up," Juszczyk posted on social media. He is reportedly appealing the fine.

The league's decision to penalize Juszczyk for the beer-chugging gesture has drawn attention, particularly given the NFL's significant commercial ties to the alcohol industry and Juszczyk's own nickname, which could imply a gesture towards drinking juice rather than beer.