Derwin James, an All-Pro safety for the Los Angeles Chargers, was disqualified for a brutal helmet-to-helmet hit on wide receiver Ashton Dulin in the second quarter of Monday night’s victory over the Indianapolis Colts.
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Derwin James returned to the Chargers’ secondary on Monday night after missing the previous two games due to injury. James’ comeback, however, was short-lived because the seasoned defensive back was dismissed from Week 16’s game against the Colts for leading with his helmet on a forceful hit in the second quarter.
The crack of the hit was audible on the broadcast as James led with his helmet’s crown. The penalty was assessed because Dulin was deemed to be a helpless receiver. After being struck, Dulin did not stand up until medical personnel helped him.
Ashton Dulin brutally pinned down by Derwin James Jr.
The Colts wide receiver Ashton Dulin was knocked off his feet and onto the ground with just under five and a half minutes remaining in the first half as Los Angeles led 7-0. James charged full speed toward Dulin before making contact with his upper body — first his shoulder, then his head and neck region. The tackle appeared to involve helmet-to-helmet contact in real time.
The shoulder was contacted first, according to the replay, but Dulin was still deemed a helpless receiver because he had just turned up field to try to catch a short pass from Colts quarterback Nick Foles when James knocked him to the ground.
Dulin sought medical attention on the sidelines and then made his way to the locker room while giving the Indianapolis crowd the thumbs up. Later, a concussion was determined to be the cause of his absence.
James, meanwhile, was flagged for unnecessary roughness and went to the Chargers’ blue medical tent. Officials soon announced that James had also been disqualified for the hit.
The Chargers safety seemed to be affected by the hit more than Dulin, at least immediately following it. The hit came two plays after James was fined for putting a face mask on Michael Pittman Jr. Prior to being ejected, James, a three-time Pro Bowler, had made three tackles and a pick.
In 13 starts this year, he has 109 tackles and two interceptions. Dulin, who is in his fourth season with the Colts, has started 11 games this year, recording 15 receptions for 207 yards and a touchdown.
