Carolina Panthers safety Tre'von Moehrig has been suspended one game by the NFL for an act of unsportsmanlike conduct during the team's 20-9 loss to the San Francisco 49ers. The incident involved Moehrig hitting 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings in the groin in the fourth quarter.
The NFL announced the suspension on Tuesday following Monday night's game. Moehrig violated Rule 12, Section 3, Article 1, which covers acts contrary to sportsmanship, including throwing a punch or kicking at an opponent.
After the play, Jennings struck Moehrig in the face postgame. The league will review Jennings' action for a possible fine, but only Moehrig faces suspension, according to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero.
Moehrig, a 26-year-old fifth-year starter, may appeal the decision. He will be eligible to return on Dec. 1, after the Panthers' Week 13 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams. This season, Moehrig has started all 12 games, recording 81 tackles, two passes defensed, one sack and one interception. Selected in the second round by the Las Vegas Raiders in 2021, he joined Carolina this offseason after his rookie contract expired.
The Panthers (6-6) face a tough challenge without Moehrig, as the Rams (9-2) feature a potent offense led by Matthew Stafford, who distributes to receivers Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, along with running back Kyren Williams and multiple tight ends. Compounding the issue, starting cornerback Jaycee Horn suffered a concussion in the 49ers game and may also miss the contest.
In a tight NFC South race with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Carolina needs a strong performance against the conference-leading Rams.