Fans were up in arms on Thursday after the NFL fined San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk nearly $15,000 for his demonstrative celebration after scoring a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in Week 2.
In a letter obtained by ESPN's Adam Schefter, the NFL declared Juszczyk's “imitation of chugging a beer constituted an offensive demonstration and could reasonably be construed as being in poor taste.”
According to Schefter, Juszczyk already appealed his fine, stating that he does not even drink beer.
Former NFL star JJ Watt joined in denouncing the NFL for its questionable decision on Juszczyk.
“I'm just going to go out on a limb here. For a guy whose nickname is ‘Juice,' could it not be ‘reasonably construed' that he is drinking—stay with me here—juice?” posted Watt on X.
The 35-year-old Juszczyk responded with a hilarious quip.
“I bet you didn't even need to use your Wisconsin degree to come to that conclusion. Truly unbelievable,” wrote the 10-time Pro Bowler.
Watt's take quickly went viral, with fans echoing his opinion.
“Exactly! I've always assumed it was him drinking juice. Never thought it was supposed to be beer. So crazy he's getting fined for this. I hope he wins the appeal,” said @mrsnieto1029.
“He's been doing this for years. Why now a fine?” wondered @Rich1b8.
“The league loves to fine their own players for the most NONSENSE things. So stupid. Who cares about this stuff? Does it make the game somehow unwatchable? No? Then let the guys have fun. It certainly makes it more fun for fans when guys have personalities,” wrote @AR463.
“Some guys have never shot-gunned juice before, and it shows,” joked @Daksquared.
“Also, aren't beer ads pretty common on NFL game broadcasts? How does that square up?” asked @CalebBaskin.
The 49ers defeated the Dolphins, 35-13, on Sunday. Juszczyk had two receptions for 27 yards and one touchdown.
With the way he has contributed to the 49ers over the years, he should never pay for—stay with me here—juice in San Francisco.