What did Chargers head coach Brandon Staley have to say about Derwin James Jr’s brutal hit on Colts’ Ashton Dulin?

Following a brutal hit by the Chargers safety on the Colts wide receiver, both players ended up in concussion protocol with the former being ejected and now facing a possible league fine. Yet, be that as it may, Los Angeles’ head coach doesn’t think the outcome was just.

Chargers’ Brandon Staley defends Derwin James Jr’s vicious tackle

According to his comments post game, Chargers head coach Brandon Staley does not agree with the decision to eject safety Derwin James Jr., after his shocking hit on Colts wide receiver Ashton Dulin. Moreover, Staley actually defended James’ actions which ultimately led to both players suffering a concussion. Though the Chargers went on to win the game in convincing fashion with a 20-3 score line, it’s clear that the moment has left a stain on Monday night’s proceedings.

Where the tackle itself is concerned, replays clearly show James leading with his helmet, as he makes full contact with the side of Dulin’s helmet as well as his neck. Both players immediately fall to the ground, at which point Dulin can be seen laying still before rising to his feet, while James appears to have a moment of disorientation. The pair were promptly taken to their respective medical tents for further evaluation, with Dulin later being ruled out with a concussion, while James who – as mentioned before – was ejected, had his concussion confirmed on Monday. It’s worth mentioning, that James’ tackle on Dulin and the subsequent concussions suffered by both, come amid calls from many former NFL players, who have demanded greater action from the NFL. Their critique of the league, comes following news that Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa entered the league’s concussion protocol for the third time in recent months.

What did Bradon Staley say about Derwin James Jr’s tackle?

As we mentioned above, Staley was staunchly against the decision to eject his player. Speaking after his team’s win the coach explained his view of the situation. “No, I did not (agree), because I know Derwin’s intent,” Staley said. “I thought that he tried to lead with the shoulder.”

Interestingly, Staley also placed blame on the Colts as well as their quarterback for putting Dulin in the way of danger, despite the fact that video appears to show that James had more than enough time, to change the target area that he intended to hit. “It’s a play where they obviously laid the guy out in a tough position, which is their fault, not ours, and Derwin made an aggressive play,” Staley said. “I’ve seen him make a lot of tackles on plays just like that, and I know that his target was not above the neck. I know that.” Incidentally, Staley also said that regardless of the league’s concussion protocol, James was celebrating the team’s first playoff berth in almost five years like any other player. “He’s in the protocol right now,” Staley said. “But he is having a heck of a time in that locker room right now.”