Full Breakdown
Kyle Juszczyk’s Celebration Fine Rescinded: A Detailed Look
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event – NFL Reverses Fine for “Juice” Celebration
The NFL withdrew a $14,926 fine imposed on San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk after he simulated drinking a beverage during a touchdown celebration in the team’s Week 2 victory over the Miami Dolphins.
Background & Context
The league’s Gameday Accountability Team has intensified scrutiny of celebrations this season, issuing 21 fines in the first three weeks that total more than $300,000. Juszczyk’s “juice-box” celebration is a long-standing personal trademark linked to his nickname “Juice.” Prior to this incident, his only disciplinary actions involved illegal helmet use and low blocks.
Timeline
- July 16 2025: The league previously reversed a fine against another player, establishing a precedent for rescinding penalties after appeal.
- September 24: Juszczyk received the fine and publicly contested it, asserting the celebration represented juice, not alcohol.
- October 7 2026: An appeals officer rescinded the fine, citing the juice-box simulation.
Data & Statistics
- Fine amount: Two identical penalties of $14,926 each were levied on Juszczyk.
- League-wide discipline: 21 fines in the first three weeks, exceeding $300,000.
- Juszczyk’s accolades: 10 Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors in 2023 and 2025, and six consecutive Art Rooney Award nominations for sportsmanship.
Official Statements & Responses
League spokesperson Brian McCarthy said the decision followed a standard appeals review involving the NFL and the NFL Players Association.
Juszczyk called the fine “surprising,” emphasizing that his celebration has always involved juice, not alcohol, and noting fans chant “Juice” whenever he makes a play.
49ers quarterback Brock Purdy defended his teammate, recalling years of observing the same celebration and expressing confusion over the punishment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think you guys all know my nickname is ‘Juice.’ I have juice on my pads. The stadium yells ‘Juice’ when I catch the ball. When I celebrate, I celebrate by drinking juice, and it’s been the way for years. So I was surprised as anybody when I got a fine this week.” — Kyle Juszczyk
- “I've seen Juice do his celebration for like five years, or however long I've been here,” — Brock Purdy
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Fine amount discrepancy: NBC News reported the fine as $14,926, while US News cited a $29,852 total for two infractions.
- Number of rescinded fines: Some outlets note only Juszczyk’s fine was withdrawn; others mention a parallel $13,611 fine for Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson was also rescinded.
Why It Matters / Impact
The reversal highlights tensions between the NFL’s enforcement of celebration rules and player-driven traditions, raising questions about consistency given the league’s alcohol sponsorships. The incident has sparked new endorsement interest for Juszczyk, including a partnership with Ocean Spray.
What’s Next
No further appeals have been announced. The NFL’s upcoming disciplinary guidelines remain under review, and the league’s approach to similar celebrations may be clarified in future policy updates.