San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw has responded with disbelief to an $11,941 fine from the NFL for taunting Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton. The fine was issued after Greenlaw engaged in sideline jawing with Payton during the 49ers' 24-14 victory over the Broncos on Sunday.
Greenlaw appeared unaware of the penalty until it was posted on social media. The Instagram account @oursf49ers shared news of the fine, with Greenlaw himself commenting, "Damn fr? Lmao."
The relationship between Greenlaw and Payton has a complicated history. Greenlaw signed a three-year, $35 million contract with the Broncos in March 2025. However, his tenure in Denver deteriorated due to frustrations over his role and how his injury rehabilitation was handled. The Broncos released Greenlaw after the season, allowing him to return to the 49ers, where he began his NFL career.
Payton addressed the taunting incident after Sunday's game, stating he still held affection for his former player. Greenlaw's reaction to the fine suggests the mutual respect may not be entirely reciprocated, and the penalty adds a financial consequence to their lingering animosity.