In the aftermath of a heartbreaking 27-24 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, Pittsburgh Steelers safety Tyrone Jenkins voiced his discontent with the unnecessary roughness penalty he received late in the third quarter. The penalty, which came on a deep sideline pass intended for wide receiver Ethan Thompson, resulted in Jenkins colliding with Thompson as the ball sailed out of bounds.
Jenkins was adamant that he did not lead with his head and instead pulled up, yet still made contact with Thompson. The officials informed him that Thompson was considered a defenseless player, a designation that left Jenkins perplexed.
“I’m at a loss for words,” Jenkins said. “The game I love is changing, and it’s becoming increasingly difficult to play with the level of physicality that’s expected of us. You can’t hit anyone with conviction, and it’s as if we’re being discouraged from playing with passion and intensity.”
When asked if his momentum carried him into the hit, Jenkins responded, “I have every right to go for the ball, just like the receiver does. If I don’t make contact with his head, it shouldn’t be a penalty. I’m allowed to compete for the ball, and it’s frustrating that we’re being restricted from doing so.”
The 15-yard penalty proved costly, as it gave the Colts a fresh set of downs and allowed them to cross midfield. They would eventually score on the drive, taking a 24-10 lead. At the time of the penalty, the Steelers were trailing by a touchdown and attempting to mount a comeback after digging themselves a 17-0 hole in the first half.
Teammate Ryan Wallace echoed Jenkins’ sentiments, stating, “That call was ridiculous. Tyrone did nothing wrong. He didn’t lead with his head, and he even let up before making contact. It’s a shame that the refs are taking away our ability to play the game with heart and determination.”
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