For the second consecutive encounter with the Philadelphia Eagles, the San Francisco 49ers found themselves losing a crucial player to an ejection. In the NFC Championship Game, it was left tackle Trent Williams; this time around, linebacker Dre Greenlaw faced the same fate.
During San Francisco’s 42-19 victory on Sunday, Greenlaw’s ejection unfolded with 9:27 remaining in the third quarter. The incident occurred when he tackled Eagles receiver DeVonta Smith near the Philadelphia sideline after a 13-yard completion. Greenlaw’s forceful takedown prompted a penalty flag.
As Greenlaw and Smith got back on their feet, a commotion ensued between Eagles staffers, players, and the 49ers, marked by heated exchanges. Dom DiSandro, the Eagles’ head of security, approached Greenlaw, who, in the midst of yelling, extended his arm towards DiSandro. The contact between Greenlaw’s hand and DiSandro’s face led to his disqualification.
Prior to Greenlaw’s ejection, officials engaged in a lengthy discussion with Eagles coach Nick Sirianni, who advocated for the expulsion. Niners coach Kyle Shanahan expressed visible frustration with the decision, storming onto the field and vehemently protesting to the officials.
Following the incident, Greenlaw swiftly headed to the locker room amid a chorus of boos from Eagles fans. DiSandro, who was also removed from the game, received an appreciative ovation from Philadelphia fans as he exited.
At the time of his ejection, Greenlaw led San Francisco with seven tackles. His track record included a tendency for unnecessary roughness penalties, with two others incurred during this season and a total of five in his career.
