UPDATE: In a shocking moment during the NFL Divisional Round playoff game on January 17, 2026, San Francisco 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir headbutted Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba amid a dominating 41-6 loss. The incident, which occurred in the second half, has sparked outrage among fans and analysts alike after it went unpenalized by officials.
Lenoir and Smith-Njigba exchanged heated words before Lenoir slammed his helmet into Smith-Njigba’s facemask, a move many believe should have warranted a penalty. As the game progressed, Seattle showcased offensive prowess under quarterback Sam Darnold, delivering a decisive blow to the 49ers with 281 total yards and forcing three turnovers.
Amid the chaos, Smith-Njigba celebrated his touchdown, finishing the game with three catches for 19 yards. His brother, Canaan Smith-Njigba, took to social media to taunt Lenoir, posting, “Jax always wanted a little brother to bully. Welcome to the family,” further intensifying the rivalry.
Lenoir, reflecting on the game’s outcome, remarked, “It would have been a ‘landslide’ in our favor if the team was completely healthy.” He acknowledged the challenges faced but insisted, “We had enough guys in here to get the job done.”
Seattle’s victory propels them to the NFC Championship, where they will face the winner of the Los Angeles Rams and Chicago Bears matchup. The Seahawks’ defense, which played a crucial role in the win, will look to maintain momentum as they advance in the playoffs.
The headbutt incident and the ensuing defeat underscore the intense emotions surrounding playoff football. As fans react to the game’s events, the 49ers will face scrutiny over their performance and Lenoir’s actions on the field.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to cover this developing story.