The National Football League has reversed a $14,926 fine issued to San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk after league officials concluded his on-field celebration did not mimic drinking beer, according to a report by ESPN. The penalty, originally levied following the team’s Sept. 20 game against the Miami Dolphins, stemmed from an evaluation that the veteran player made a tasteless gesture.
Juszczyk, nicknamed “Juice,” clarified that he was instead simulating drinking from a juice box—a routine celebration he has performed for years after securing a first down or scoring a touchdown without prior discipline from the league office. Following the initial penalty notice, the fullback filed a formal appeal, highlighting what he viewed as a contradiction given the league’s prominent corporate partnership with Bud Light.
Kyle Juszczyk Explains the Juice Box Celebration
Addressing reporters on Sept. 24, Juszczyk defended his signature routine and expressed bewilderment at the league’s initial interpretation of the gesture. “I don’t know how to put it any other way. I wasn’t drinking beer during my celebration,” Juszczyk said. “I think you guys all know my nickname is ‘Juice’. I have ‘Juice’ written on my equipment. The stadium chants ‘Juice!’ when I catch the ball. When I celebrate, I do it by drinking fruit juice, and it’s been like that for years. So I was just as surprised as anybody else when I got a fine this week.”
League disciplinary records indicate that Juszczyk carries a clean track record regarding sportsmanship. He has served as the 49ers’ nominee for the NFL’s Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award for six seasons. Prior disciplinary actions against the veteran have been strictly limited to on-field infractions involving illegal helmet contact and low tackles.
Fourteen Seasons of Production
Now in his 14th professional season and his 10th with the 49ers, Juszczyk remains one of the league’s most durable and decorated fullbacks. He has earned 10 Pro Bowl selections throughout his career and secured first-team All-Pro honors in both 2023 and 2025.
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