In Week 16 against the Colts, Chargers star safety Derwin James was ejected in the second quarter.
James lowered the crown of his helmet and connected it with the shoulder and neck of wide receiver Ashton Dulin.
James was flagged for unnecessary roughness and ultimately kicked out for the illegal hit on a defenseless receiver. Dulin was later ruled out with a concussion that caused him to miss the rest of the game.
James was also diagnosed with a concussion that sidelined him in last Sunday’s game against the Rams.
On Thursday, at his media availability, James said he was trying to make a play and had no intentions of hurting Dulin.
“I’m not a dirty player,” James said.
James is donned as one of the league’s best safeties, known for his ability to play multiple spots across the field at a high level. But he is also lauded for his physicality as a tackler.
“If you look at how I play every week, I’m not out to hurt nobody,” James said. “I don’t play the game that way. I wasn’t taught the game that way. I’m trying to play fast and aggressive for my team and make a play.”
The NFL decided not to suspend James for the hit, but he was still given a $25,462 fine.
James cleared the NFL’s concussion protocol and is back with the Chargers.
“I’m 100%,” James said.
