San Francisco 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings and Carolina Panthers safety Tre\'von Moehrig engaged in a postgame altercation following the 49ers\' 20-9 victory on Monday Night Football, with both players likely facing league discipline for their actions.
Jennings approached Moehrig on the field after the game and threw two open-handed punches toward his face. Panthers linebacker Krys Barnes intervened before 49ers staff and teammates separated the players.
The confrontation originated from an earlier incident during the game\'s final minutes. Replay footage showed Moehrig appearing to throw a punch below Jennings\' belt after a play had ended.
\"To me, I was just responding to some childish behavior. I play hard. I\'m physically stronger than a lot of DBs,\" Jennings said.
Moehrig acknowledged he expects a fine for the low hit. He said Jennings had been talking trash and pushed him in the back during the game.
\"He wanted to do a little dirty stuff, so it is what it is, man. I\'ll take that one,\" Moehrig said.
The NFL will likely review the interactions between both players. Postgame altercations can result in suspensions, as Detroit Lions safety Brian Branch received a one-game ban earlier this season for instigating a scuffle.
49ers coach Kyle Shanahan defended his receiver after the game.
\"The guy took a cheap shot and hit him in the balls. Real proud of Jauan for not losing his mind out there,\" Shanahan said.
Panthers coach Dave Canales said he would investigate the incident and speak with Moehrig.
Jennings finished with five catches for 41 yards and a touchdown in San Francisco\'s victory.