Broncos’ Kareem Jackson Seemed to Get Away With a Very Dirty Hit Against Josh Dobbs

Broncos safety Kareem Jackson again found himself in hot water with NFL fans on Sunday after the 14-year veteran faced criticism over a questionable hit.

The controversial moment occurred after Jackson, in his first game back from suspension, unleashed what appeared to be a devastating helmet-to-helmet hit to Vikings quarterback Josh Dobbs on Sunday Night Football.

Minnesota Vikings quarterback Joshua Dobb fumbles against the Denver Broncos in the first quarter at Empower Field at Mile High. 

Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Jackson’s booming tackle came just as Dobbs coughed up the football while trying to pick up a first down. The replay on the NBC broadcast sparked questions from eagle-eyed viewers on social media. 

To make matters worse, the decision not to flag Jackson for unnecessary roughness was openly contested by NBC rules analyst, and former official, Terry McAulay, who disagreed with the non-call.

Terry McAulay said on the NBC broadcast that Kareem Jackson should’ve been penalized for this hit on Josh Dobbs. pic.twitter.com/fP5TABQ8ha

— Will Ragatz (@WillRagatz) November 20, 2023

Fans were quick to criticize Jackson for his hit:

Kareem Jackson has been fined, ejected and suspended this season for lowering his head and launching...

Guy's learned nothing.

This is dangerous to both himself and who he's targeting. pic.twitter.com/i9BtxEv8lF

— Sam Monson (@PFF_Sam) November 20, 2023

The broadcast is saying it should have been a penalty on Kareem Jackson for the hit.

If so, that's concerning for Kareem's future after the game.

— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) November 20, 2023

Kareem Jackson literally can’t stop using his head as a weapon for tackles. Instead of a penalty, it forces a turnover. I mean … 😔 🤷🏻‍♀️

— Arielle Orsuto (@ArielleOrsuto) November 20, 2023

Kareem Jackson never learns… that could’ve been a costly penalty.

— Fantasy Fling (@FantasyFling) November 20, 2023

Kareem Jackson with yet another helmet to helmet hit. Should’ve been a penalty and cost us a turnover. I’m steadfast in my take he should be off the Broncos. https://t.co/O9tMkkHE7h

— ben herbstreit’s #1 fan (@Nutts__) November 20, 2023

Welp Kareem Jackson gonna get fined and suspended AGAIN for that Dobbs it

Leading with the crown of helmet and leaping

(Not a flag. But #NFL already drawing up the paperwork)#SNF

— Emerson Types (@EmersonTypes) November 20, 2023